Pursuers of a Fighting Chance
Operations of Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) in Taiwan
1. Taiwanese Medical Professionals in International Aid
• Medical volunteer deployment: Taiwanese doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and psychologists can apply to join MSF and participate in medical relief missions worldwide, including conflict zones, refugee camps, and areas affected by natural disasters.
• Professional training and adaptation: Volunteers receive specialized training before deployment, covering emergency medical response, cross-cultural communication, and security management to ensure they can adapt to high-risk environments.
Frontline rescue personnel and plastic surgeon Dr. Wu Yi-Chun. © Dr. Wu Yi-Chun
2. Promoting Humanitarian Aid Awareness and Crisis Advocacy
• Public awareness campaigns: MSF in Taiwan raises awareness through social media, lectures, and exhibitions, encouraging public support and participation. For instance, the “Pain, I Walk With You” lecture in November 2024 featured Dr. Wu Yi-Chun, who shared his experience providing aid in Gaza. He emphasized, “I know that helping as an individual may be difficult, but through collective efforts, we can alleviate or even end their suffering.” This highlights the importance of collaboration in reducing the hardships of war victims.
• Media outreach: Since August 2020, MSF Taiwan has published the magazine Frontline, offering insights into field missions and firsthand accounts from frontline medical professionals, helping Taiwanese citizens better understand global humanitarian challenges.
"For example reading *Frontline* in the library."
3.Migrant Worker Care Initiatives
With the rising number of migrant workers in Taiwan, many face cultural, linguistic, and environmental barriers, leading to increased psychological stress. Global studies indicate that migrant workers have a high prevalence of depression and anxiety. In response, MSF Taiwan collaborates with migrant worker support group One Forty to organize workshops that help migrant workers better understand their mental health.
©MSF