Pursuers of a Fighting Chance
Development Aspects of MSF
How MSF Develops:
Through our interview with Ms. Ho, we’ve learned that the organization does not aim to expand its influence. MSF exists because of conflicts, wars, or regions with inadequate medical resources that require assistance. In the interview, it was mentioned that the organization hopes for a world where it no longer needs to exist—meaning that all regions would have sufficient medical resources and no longer require external medical aid.
MSF's Assessment Before Providing Aid:
Before carrying out relief missions, the organization follows a set of fixed evaluation standards. Additionally, pre-mission safety briefings are conducted to ensure work efficiency and, most importantly, the safety of team members. Ensuring the safety of MSF staff is a top priority.
MSF’s Funding and Independence:
97% of MSF's funding comes from private donations, including contributions from small businesses and individual donors. Globally, around 7.3 million people are actively donating to MSF. Regarding independence, the organization does not accept donations from governments, military entities, or major pharmaceutical companies. Ms. Ho emphasized that financial independence is one of the aspects MSF is most proud of. Accepting funds from governments, military organizations, or pharmaceutical companies would inevitably lead to negotiations and compromises, which could undermine MSF’s neutrality and financial independence. These principles are crucial for upholding MSF’s core mission of neutrality.
Rescue Operations and Technology:
Recently, MSF collaborated with the University of Geneva in Switzerland to develop an AI database containing images of 380,000 venomous snakes. When a person is bitten, a quick photo of the snake can be taken and analyzed by AI for identification. This technology allows medical teams to provide the correct antivenom quickly. Since antivenom is highly expensive, this system helps prevent the misuse of incorrect treatments and ensures that valuable medical resources are used efficiently.
©Pexels
©Pexels
Challenges in Expanding Operations in Recent Years
The Israel-Palestine Conflict:
One of the most challenging aspects of MSF’s humanitarian work in recent years has been the conflict between Israel and Palestine, particularly in the Gaza Strip. MSF has been providing aid in Gaza since 1989, but unlike previous conflicts, the recent escalation has severely devastated the entire medical system. Since October 2023, there have been 41 armed attacks on medical facilities, resulting in casualties among MSF staff, with nine members killed or injured.
The loss of frontline personnel has highlighted the crucial role of media in MSF’s operations. Without journalists broadcasting the reality on the ground, the world would not focus on these humanitarian crises. Ms. Ho also mentioned that attacks on medical personnel in conflict zones constitute a serious violation of international humanitarian law, which explicitly prohibits targeting aid workers.
MSF’s Frontline Aid Through Media Coverage:
As a liaison between frontline workers and the organization, Ms. Ho emphasized that communication is one of the most difficult challenges. The chaos of war often disrupts contact between internal MSF teams and field personnel. Additionally, since most battlefield reports come from the statements of the Israeli and Palestinian governments, MSF plays a critical role in disseminating independent and accurate information.
The media working with MSF must act swiftly, remain neutral, and maintain objectivity while reporting on the crisis. Their role is to ensure that crucial information reaches global audiences rapidly and accurately. Likewise, MSF doctors on the frontlines not only bear the responsibility of providing urgent medical aid to war victims but also serve as key witnesses to the reality of war. Since most civilians and external observers are unable to access conflict zones, MSF doctors play a vital role in conveying the true situation to international media, drawing global attention to the crisis.
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The Role of MSF Taiwan and Encouraging Greater Participation:
Although the Taiwan branch of MSF may not have the same level of influence as other countries, increased participation from dedicated individuals could make a significant impact on global humanitarian efforts. Apart from media and communications roles like Ms. Ho’s, providing care for migrant workers is another meaningful way to contribute to the world.
MSF requires not only doctors but also professionals from various fields to enhance operational efficiency and support humanitarian missions. If you ever encounter MSF fundraising efforts on the street, consider offering your support—every contribution, no matter how small, helps make the world a safer and more peaceful place.