Safeguarding Health in Conflict Coalition

Today, the Safeguarding Health in Conflict Coalition released its eighth annual report, documenting the global incidence of attacks and threats against health workers, facilities, and transport around the world. The report cites 806 incidents of violence against or obstruction of health care in 43 countries and territories in ongoing wars and violent conflicts in 2020, ranging from the bombing of hospitals in Yemen to the abduction of doctors in Nigeria. Attacks – including killings, kidnappings, and sexual assaults, as well as destruction and damage of health facilities and transports – compounded the threats to health in every country as health systems struggled to prepare for and respond to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Press release: New report out now! In 2018 there were at least 973 attacks on health workers, health facilities, health transports, and patients in 23 countries in conflict around the world. At least 167 health workers died, and at least 710 were injured as a result of these attacks.

When hospitals or clinics are attacked, women often become targets. But what do we know about the real impact on their health and well-being?

New report from the Safeguarding Health in Conflict Coalition shows the extent and intensity of violence against health workers globally remains alarmingly high and calls on the UN Security Council and countries to take concrete steps toward preventing attacks and ending impunity.

This event organized by Defenders for Medical Impartiality and cosponsored by the Safeguarding Health in Conflict Coalition will take place on Tuesday, 27 September, from 10-11 am in Room XXIV of Palais des Nations in Geneva.