Journal of Humanitarian Medicine - vol. VIII - n. 3 -July/September 2008

Concepts and Practice of Humanitarian Medicine

Edited by S.W.A. Gunn and M. Masellis International Association for Humanitarian Medicine

As major events like war, epidemics, and climate change continue to push global health issues to the fore, the international medical community is called upon more than ever to address the needs of the most vulnerable. Concepts and Practice of Humanitarian Medicine brings public health and human rights concerns together, uniting medical, scientific, sociopolitical, and historical perspectives to reaffirm this vision. Forty-one essays from 33 international contributors set out the principles of humanitarian medicine, beginning with the concept of health as a human right, and examining topics such as quality of life, torture, and nuclear conflict. The book draws on important treaties and conventions throughout the history of the United Nations and the World Health Organization, and pays tribute to the efforts of individuals and organizations working to correct health inequities worldwide. It is a true expression of the spirit of WHO.

A sampling of the topics:

• Health for All or Hell for All?

• The potential of humanitarian medicine in torture prevention and human rights.

• The varied roles of international and nongovernmental agencies in humanitarian medicine.

• Critical issues specific to women, children, migrants, refugees, and the poor.

• The right to health.

• Health effects in an increasingly nuclear world.

For those committed to the new health frontiers around the world - particularly researchers, professionals, social scientists, and policymakers in public health, global health, and human rights - Concepts in Humanitarian Medicine is both informative and empowering reading. Produced by the prestigious scientific publishers, Springer of New York, this is a true tribute to global health.

Some Reviews:

• Challenging… Providing much food for thought. The prestigious authors add to the uniqueness of the publication.
  – WHO, Health Action in Crises

• A galaxy of authors that includes three Nobel Laureates, two Secretaries-General of the United Nations, and two Directors-General of the World Health Organization promises a book of the highest interest. The result fully justifies the promise.
  – Journal of Humanitarian Medicine

• A remarkable array of chapters of prime importance, and a complete view of the technical, philosophical, ethical, and humanist issues to inspire reflection.
  – Prof. Baron Michel Leachat, Recherches en Epidémiologie des Désastres, Belgium

(See the preceding photograph of Director-General Dr Margaret Chan receiving this IAHM book on behalf of WHO.)