Crisis Care: Ensuring Safety for Medical Professionals in Armed Conflicts

This article was exclusively written for The European Sting by Ms. Anika Tabassum Totini, a dedicated fourth-year medical student from Bangladesh. She is affiliated with the International Federation of Medical Students Associations (IFMSA), cordial partner of The Sting. The opinions expressed in this piece belong strictly to the writer and do not necessarily reflect IFMSA’s view on the topic, nor The European Sting’s one.

Armed conflicts: unfortunate as it may be, given the current circumstances, is an inevitable reality. These create some of the most dangerous conditions for professionals, but the risks are especially severe for medical workers. They enter conflict zones not to fight, but to heal — tending to the wounded, both civilians and combatants alike, often under fire themselves. These unsung heroes are the front-line defense against the human cost of war, but their safety is continuously jeopardized.

International law, specifically the Geneva Conventions, lays out strict rules for the protection of medical personnel in armed conflicts. Yet, time and again, these laws are violated. Hospitals are bombed, ambulances are attacked, and doctors are kidnapped or killed. This alarming trend threatens not only the lives of medical professionals but also the very essence of humanitarian care in war zones.

The Increasing Risks

The lines between combatant and noncombatant have blurred in many modern conflicts. Medical workers are often viewed with suspicion, targeted for aiding “the enemy” or becoming collateral damage in indiscriminate attacks. This danger is heightened by the growing complexity of warfare, where insurgent groups, state armies, and foreign forces clash without clear boundaries.

In conflict zones like Syria, Yemen, and Ukraine, medical facilities have been bombed despite being clearly marked, and doctors have been detained or executed for providing care to those deemed “opponents.” The psychological toll on these professionals is immense. Many report feelings of helplessness, anger, and trauma as they witness the destruction of their life-saving missions.

Global Response and Support

While the international community has made efforts to mitigate these dangers, the response has been slow and fragmented. Organizations like Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) and the International Red Cross work tirelessly to advocate for the protection of medical personnel, often negotiating directly with warring factions to ensure safe passage. However, these efforts are not enough without strong global enforcement mechanisms.

Governments, international organizations, and civil society must strengthen their collective voice to demand accountability for those who violate international humanitarian law. Moreover, technological advancements such as mobile field hospitals, GPS-enabled tracking systems for medical convoys, and advanced communication tools can help protect medical workers, allowing them to stay connected and informed in real-time.

A Call for Urgent Action

Ensuring the safety of medical professionals in conflict zones is not just a humanitarian issue but a moral imperative. If these professionals are forced to flee or stop providing care, the result is catastrophic for war-torn populations. It is crucial that the world takes concrete steps to uphold the sanctity of medical care, reinforcing both legal and practical measures to safeguard these indispensable individuals.

As long as conflicts persist, medical professionals will continue to stand on the front lines. The least we can do is ensure their safety as they strive to heal the wounds of war.

About the author

Anika Tabassum Totini is a dedicated fourth-year medical student from Bangladesh, driven by a passion for healthcare and a commitment to making a difference. Currently serving as the SCOPE General Assistant for the term 2024-25, she connects medical students globally and promotes collaboration in health initiatives. An advocate for health equity, Totini believes every patient deserves quality care and aims to become a physician who not only heals but also empowers others, leaving a lasting impact on the world of medicine.