Recently, the International Court of Justice found Israel likely in violation of the Genocide Convention due to its treatment of Palestinians, particularly the attacks on Gaza’s health workers and infrastructure. Despite this, major U.S.-based global health organizations have remained silent on the issue, failing to condemn the destruction in Gaza aided by the Biden administration.
Frantz Fanon’s observations on medicine and colonialism remain relevant today, highlighting the complicity of the global health field with colonial domination. However, individual doctors and organizations like Doctors Without Borders have shown that they can choose to stand against oppression and injustice.
By working side by side with Palestinians, Doctors Without Borders has taken a strong stance against the atrocities in Gaza, even at the cost of losing staff members to Israeli attacks. While some organizations have historically embraced depoliticizing paradigms, there is a growing realization that political engagement is necessary to truly care for people and prevent atrocities.
It is essential for the medical profession and global health practitioners to confront the political-economic determinants of health and take a principled stand against atrocities like the ongoing genocide in Gaza. Remaining neutral in the face of such atrocities not only compromises ethical credibility but also perpetuates a cycle of betrayal of basic ethical responsibilities.