Protection and Maintenance of Healthcare Services for Civilians' Well-Being in Conflict Affected Areas: Comparative Analysis of The African Situation

Purpsoe: Medical neutrality refers to a globally accepted principle derived from International humanitarian law (IHL), International Human Rights Law and Medical Ethics. It is based on the principles of non-interference with medical services in times of armed conflict and civil unrest. It promotes the freedom for physicians and aid personnel to care for the sick and wounded, and to receive care regardless of political affiliation. The purpose of this study was to examine comparatively, the extent in which humanitarian aid access, healthcare facilities and healthcare professionals are protected in conflict affected areas in Africa. The protection of health personnel, health services and humanitarian workers is no longer respected. This compromises the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 3 - towards health for all, and 16 - towards justice and peace. Methdology: The study was guided by Andersen's Behavioral Model of health service of 1995. Methodological wise, the study was depended on desktop review of empirical research including the works of Ramadan (2020) on availability of primary healthcare services in conflict affected areas as well as the works of Altare et al (2020) on the experience of women, children and adolescents in conflicts affected areas among others. Findings: The findings show that, limited infrastructure, lack of skilled personnel, and shortages of essential medical supplies hinder access to healthcare services, creating a significant gap in humanitarian aid for civilians in these areas. The study also reveals the vulnerability of health facilities and healthcare workers to attacks during conflicts, emphasizing the need for enhanced protection measures. Destruction of communication infrastructure and disrupted transportation further impede the functioning of health facilities and the delivery of critical services. The study underscores the limited access to humanitarian aid, the need for greater protection of health facilities, and the challenges in safeguarding healthcare professionals in conflict affected areas in Africa. Recommendations: The study recommends prioritization of the protection of health facilities and healthcare professionals, enhanced security measures, advocacy for International Humanitarian Law (IHL), support for healthcare infrastructure, improved access to healthcare, facilitation of humanitarian aid, support for peacebuilding initiatives and strengthening of monitoring and accountability by African Nations.