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RCPCH advocacy on international crises

The College advocates for the rights and welfare of children and health workers affected by conflict where we have the mandate, opportunity and resource to do so. We do this while always refraining from political commentary or judgement. We outline when and how we respond to international crises, and link to our position statements and updates.

Our principles when responding to international crises

The safeguarding of children's rights, the security of health workers and the integrity of medical infrastructure are not only legal obligations, but moral imperatives.

We determine if or when to respond to international crises based on three principles:

  • Mandate: The institutional remit of the College
  • Opportunity: Whether the College can meaningfully engage and have impact
  • Resource: Whether there is available resource to lead meaningful action
More on how and in which ways we respond to international crises
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On international conflict

This position statement explains that, as mandated by our mission, we advocate for the best interests of children and paediatricians around the world, whoever they are and wherever they may be, and without engaging in political commentary or judgement.
On international conflict
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On working in fragile and conflict-affected states

This position statement explains our right to engage and operate in states only where we can support paediatric education and healthcare capacity building without undue association or direct support to reputationally problematic regimes, and without any security threat.
On working in fragile states
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On rights of migrant, refugee, stateless, undocumented children

This position statement recognises that, as outlined United Nations’ Convention on the Rights of the Child, every child has the right to voice, protection, health and education. It urges all states to recognise and realise their obligation to children's access to healthcare.
On the rights of these children

Humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the Middle East

We have been calling on the UK Government to do more to enact and enforce international human rights and humanitarian law to protect children in Gaza. We outline RCPCH action and engagement in the region, and signpost to resources.

Middle East Crisis - resources
RCPCH engagement in Palestine

News and updates on international crises

Gaza
Ukraine
Myanmar
Sudan

RCPCH Global child health programmes

We help improve child health worldwide with cost effective, high impact programmes. We work with our membership of experienced paediatricians and other child health professionals and with local organisations.
Our global child health programmes

RCPCH updates on our response to international crises

More
News

RCPCH urges UK Government to act on Sudan crisis

18 November 2025
Today, the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) has written to the Foreign Secretary, Rt Hon Yvette Cooper MP, calling for urgent action to protect children, young people, pregnant women and healthcare workers affected by the escalating crisis in Sudan.
International crisis