The International Federation for Emergency Medicine (IFEM) expresses deep concern at the military coup in Myanmar and unlawful removal of the democratically elected government. We stand in solidarity with our medical and nursing colleagues in Myanmar.

In 2012, IFEM formally partnered with the Myanmar Ministry of Health and Sports to develop emergency care services.  We are proud that our eight-year partnership has resulted in the specialist training of over 100 emergency medicine doctors, more than 50 emergency nurses, well-developed hospital emergency departments and better emergency care systems.  These doctors and nurses, including international affiliate members of IFEM, give patient-centred, compassionate, high quality care to all patients without discrimination.

Now these professionals join many other healthcare workers, raising their voices in protest against social instability and injustice. The ethical dilemma of how to protest for change while providing emergency care for their communities during this dangerous time is enormous and difficult.  IFEM recognises these professional and personal ethical challenges.

IFEM stands in solidarity with, and supports, our Myanmar colleagues and the leaders of the Myanmar Emergency Medicine Society in their protest calling for peace and return to a stable democracy.

Professor Sally McCarthy
IFEM PRESIDENT