Under siege: Targeting hospitals in conflict

Civilian populations face dire consequences of the systematic erosion of international humanitarian norms. For instance, the increased frequency of targeting hospitals and medical personnel is part of broader strategies to demoralize and control local populations. These measures violate the Geneva Conventions, which mandate the protection of civilian medical infrastructure, even during wartime. What happens to public health when there is reduced access to medical care? What occurs when the integrity of humanitarian law is challenged? And how can protection measures for healthcare facilities be strengthened? Click on for these answers and more.