A guidance document for medical teams responding to health emergencies in armed conflicts and other insecure environments

In armed conflicts and other insecure environments, medical care saves lives and alleviates suffering. It is one of the most urgent and high-priority needs for populations immersed in such conflicts, often being the first type of response activated or requested by authorities and communities. Emergency medical teams working in armed conflicts and other insecure environments frequently face severe threats to their safety and difficulties in accessing patients. Sometimes, they also encounter limited acceptance from affected communities and belligerent parties. A principled medical response consists, on one hand, of a series of clinical and operational interventions governed by fundamental standards, and on the other, of a patient-centered approach with special attention to quality, safety, and protection. 

This publication, also known as the Red Book, provides a guidance framework and introduces additional verification requirements for medical teams in the preparation phase or already participating in health emergency responses in armed conflicts and other insecure environments. The Red Book is based on the humanitarian imperative to act and not delay medical care. In this sense, it offers an important framework to guide and improve the safety and access of teams while the United Nations, countries, and belligerent parties make diplomatic efforts to find a peaceful and lasting solution to the conflict or insecurity situation.