In 2016, attacks on—or interference with—health care occurred in 23 countries in conflict or experiencing political unrest around the world. The sheer number of countries and the intensity of attacks on health facilities, health workers, ambulances, and patients are staggering. International law requires hospitals, clinics, and ambulances to be places of safety, yet health facilities are too often among the most dangerous places in communities. Moreover, health workers, who are bound by ethical codes to provide care to all who need it, were arrested, punished, and even killed for fulfilling their duty of impartial care.

FULL PUBLICATION