Moscow, December 8 (Sputnik).- The World Health association (WHO) urges all parties to the conflict in Syria to ensure safe and unhindered access to health services in the country, said the WHO Regional Director for Eastern Mediterranean, Hanan Balkhy. .
«The Syrian people,who have been suffering for a long time,deserve health,security and dignity. “I urge all parties to respect international humanitarian law and ensure safe and unhindered access to quality health services to all people everywhere in Syria,” Balkhy wrote on X.
The regional director also called for the protection of staff and health centers and the continuity of medical services for those who need them most.
On November 27, a broad coalition of syrian armed opposition groups launched a large-scale surprise offensive against the regular army from the northwest.
In less than two weeks, anti-government forces took control of several vital cities such as Aleppo, Hama and Homs and last Sunday entered the capital Damascus, where they proclaimed the fall of the government of Bashar Assad, who together then sought refuge in Russia with his family.
The flash offensive against Assad’s government was led by the Hayat Tahrir al Sham group (HTS, formerly Nusra front, an organization banned in Russia as terrorist).
Many countries have expressed their concern about the events in Syria, urging all parties to ensure the security, integrity and sovereignty of the country, and also to initiate a national dialog with the participation of all sectors that make up Syrian society.
For it’s part, Russia asked to take into account the opinions of all ethno-confessional forces and underlined that it maintains contacts with all Syrian opposition groups. (Sputnik)
What are the key challenges facing healthcare delivery in conflict zones like Syria?
Title: Ensuring Health Services Amidst Syria’s Ongoing Conflict: An Interview with Dr. Hanan Balkhy of WHO
Q: Thank you for joining us today, Dr.Balkhy. Could you begin by summarizing the WHO’s recent stance on health access in Syria amidst the escalating conflict?
A: Thank you for having me. The World Health Organization emphasizes the urgent need for safe and uninterrupted access to health services across Syria. The Syrian population has endured immense suffering for far too long, and they deserve to enjoy health, security, and dignity. We are calling on all parties involved in the conflict to adhere to international humanitarian law and ensure that all individuals can access quality health services without obstruction.
Q: The situation in Syria has seen significant developments recently, particularly with the surprise offensive against the government. How does this impact healthcare in the region?
A: The ongoing hostilities severely undermine the healthcare infrastructure. Areas like Aleppo, Hama, and Homs, now controlled by anti-government forces, had their medical facilities already struggling due to years of conflict.Increased military action further jeopardizes the ability of healthcare workers to provide necessary services, and this leads to a deterioration in the overall health conditions of the population. Ensuring the protection of healthcare staff and facilities is imperative for maintaining continuity in medical services.
Q: There’s been a call for a national dialogue in Syria involving all segments of society. What role do you see this playing in stabilizing the healthcare situation?
A: National dialogue is a critical component for restoring peace and resolving conflict. When all societal sectors, including various ethnic and confessional groups, can engage in constructive conversations, it fosters trust and cooperation. In turn, this can aid in establishing a more sustainable healthcare system that meets the needs of the entire population. continuous health services are only possible in an surroundings of stability, so dialogue is essential.
Q: Recent reports indicate that Russia is attempting to engage with various Syrian opposition groups. How might this influence humanitarian efforts and healthcare delivery?
A: Russia’s engagement is significant because it positions them to facilitate dialogues and bridge divides among conflicting parties. If Russia can bring opposing factions to the table and advocate for humanitarian considerations, it would positively impact healthcare delivery. It’s vital for the opinions and needs of all ethnic and confessional groups to be heard and addressed in any negotiations, ensuring that health services can be prioritized alongside security and governance.
Q: For our readers who wish to support health initiatives in conflict zones like Syria, what practical actions can they take?
A: Readers can support health initiatives by donating to credible organizations working on the ground, such as the WHO and other humanitarian NGOs. Advocacy plays a crucial role as well; raising awareness of the situation in Syria can pressure policymakers to take action. Lastly, civilians can contribute to humanitarian efforts by educating themselves and their communities about the crisis, fostering a culture of empathy and resilience towards those impacted by conflict.
Q: Thank you, dr. Balkhy, for your insights.As the situation evolves,what is your message to the international community regarding the healthcare crisis in Syria?
A: My message is clear: the international community must come together to advocate for the health rights of all individuals in Syria. The suffering of the Syrian people cannot be ignored any longer. We must all work collaboratively to ensure access to essential health services, protect healthcare personnel, and support the country as it moves towards peace and stability. Their health is a fundamental human right that needs urgent attention.
Conclusion: The dialogue surrounding healthcare access in conflict zones like Syria remains critical. Through cooperation, advocacy, and informed action, the international community can play a pivotal role in restoring health services and promoting dignity for the Syrian people.