We have asked the field (via the HoM and Medco') what topic they would like to put on the table at the Gathering.
"MSF principles and assertive states: state of affairs of the compromises we make: How far are we willing to go to maintain presence?" has been selected as a very important and timely topic.
a) Do we take the risk to jeopardize our principles (impartiality/neutrality/independence) ?
b) How far are we willing to take security risks to maintain our presence?
Objective: debate our current challenges, the limitations of our principles in those contexts where states impose bans or restrictions on humanitarian access and assistance.
How will the debate unfold?
- Introduction:
Rationale behind the topic choice (by the HoM's) and ...
Humanitarian principles in practice, a reminder: allowing the members to have a “refreshment/pedagogical time” on these principles
with Michiel Hofman (MSF OCB Analysis Department).
- An external view on the principle of neutrality: with Ed Schenkenberg van Mierop, Executive Director at HERE Geneva (Think-Thank)
- Country focus:
- Ukraine and Russia :
Dilemmas and challenges of access, and relevance of MSF operations in the Ukraine conflict as a whole, and how balanced we are taking the security risks compared to what we are prepared to compromise for with consideration of our neutrality principle - with Christopher Stokes, Emergency Coordinator Ukraine (detachment from Analysis Department)
- Cameroun:
Dilemmas and challenges of access and relevance of MSF operations in Cameroon and how far are we ready to compromise our impartiality principle, with the aim to treat anyone solely based on medical needs (including men with gunshot wounds). It seems the Cameroonian authorities want us to stop or change this… so are we willing to make that (or any) concession i.e. treat who we can that need it the most, not for whom we should? - with Emmanuel Lampaert, Operations Coordinator.
- Ukraine and Russia :
Background video & readings:
- Humanitarian neutrality in Ukraine: most needed, worst evil? , by Michiel Hofman, Senior Humanitarian Specialist, Analysis Department
- Coming clean on neutrality and independence: The need to assess the application of humanitarian principles, by Ed Schenkenberg van Mierop
- You don't need to be neutral to be a good humanitarian, by Hugo Slim
Introduction to the debate on neutrality by Hugo Slim