MSF: solidarity call for support
Jun 21, 2016
Médecins sans Frontiers / Doctors without Borders (MSF) has decided to no longer receive funds from the EU and EU Member States “until there is a policy drive towards taking people in and focusing on individual needs,” in response to the deterrence policy to keep refugees and asylum seekers away from European shores.
PSI welcomes this decision because since the very beginning we – and many others in the trade union movement – have been outspoken about the EU-Turkey deal, voicing our concern on its implications and the human cost, demanding instead more funds and resources for the refugees themselves and for those at the frontlines – mostly public service workers and volunteers.
However, we know this is hard decision too. It will have an impact on MSF work and programmes now and in the near future, since these funds – which last year amounted to around 63 million euros – are essential to carry out MSF’s mission.
For those not familiar with its work, MSF is an independent and neutral organisation that for many years has been providing quality medical care to the people the most in need in the world, working often in very extreme and hazardous conditions. As a result of its vital work, MSF was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1999.
PSI very much appreciates the work MSF has been doing in many areas close to those in which PSI is also engaged. For this reason, and to make up for this loss, we pledge to make a donation to MSF and encourage all PSI affiliates to do the same.
You can make your donation here: http://www.msf.org/en/donate
We thank you in advance for your support.
More info on the MSF website