In January, DPRK completely closed its borders to people and most cargo – the first country in the world to do so – and implemented a strict lockdown. This took a heavy toll on the economic and humanitarian situation.

The border closure meant that MSF’s programme in North Hamgyong province was effectively put on standby. During the year, the team maintained regular contact with national authorities to discuss strategies for resuming medical activities as soon as possible. The programme was launched in late 2018, with the aim of strengthening general medical care and improving treatment, diagnosis and management of patients with tuberculosis (TB). The programme supports two TB hospitals in the province, a general hospital at county level, as well as a smaller healthcare facility at community level. Unfortunately, the commencement of direct TB activities planned for 2020 was not possible due to the border closure.

In March, we were granted a sanctions exemption by the UN to deliver a cargo of COVID-19 supplies, including personal protective equipment, diagnostic materials and antibiotics (for any associated infections), following a request by the DPRK authorities.