MSF sees first-hand the devastating impact of conflict on access to healthcare. Hence, as humanitarian health practitioners, the GHPI raises concerns for the ethical integrity and safety of humanitarian operations, staff and relationships with patients and communities. 

The GHPI introduces a foundational switch, transitioning health actors from working ‘in’ conflict to working ‘on’ conflict. This questions the respect for medical neutrality and impartiality, notably in high intensity contexts. Upholding medical ethics is what promotes trust in the profession; this trust protects safe access to healthcare in all contexts. 

Furthermore, the GHPI fails to address access and quality of care, and to differentiate the roles and responsibilities of various health actors in safeguarding health and peace. We urge the Secretariat to continue consultations with all actors to ensure that the GHPI does not do more harm than good.

A more detailed briefing paper produced by MSF was also shared with WHO and can be found below.