Representatives at the BMA’s Annual Representative Meeting in Brighton have today backed a motion¹ condemning the Russian invasion of Ukraine and calling for greater Government assistance for refugees.

Chair of the BMA international committee Kitty Mohan said

“Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine has seen horrors Europe hoped were long in its past – the targeting of children, the elderly, the disabled and pregnant women, mass killings and horrific humanitarian conditions. Only yesterday we saw the barbaric missile attack on a peaceful shopping centre in Kremenchuk, and work to recover bodies continues even as we sit here in conference. Overwhelmingly passing this motion today shows that BMA stands firm in condemning the waste and criminality of this terrible act of war.

“Doctors stand together today united on the principle of treating all those in need without fear or favour. The BMA has already called for medical neutrality to be respected even as hundreds of attacks on healthcare workers are documented. We have donated to and promoted the British Red Cross Appeal; called for Ukrainians newly arrived in the UK to receive better information about their entitlement to healthcare and advised on immigration concessions.

We have been and will continue to liaise with the government, GMC, the Medical Schools Council - and colleagues in our European and International networks - to monitor the unfolding humanitarian crisis and identify ways in which we can help.”

Ends

Notes to editors

The BMA is a professional association and trade union representing and negotiating on behalf of all doctors in the UK. A leading voice advocating for outstanding health care and a healthy population. An association providing members with excellent individual services and support throughout their lives.

1. The full wording of the motion is as below:

49 Motion by NORTH EAST REGIONAL COUNCIL:

That this meeting notes the devastating and unnecessary war in Ukraine that has resulted in thousands of deaths and millions of displaced individuals. This meeting:-
i) recognises the significant biopsychosocial impact on victims of armed conflict;
ii) condemns the targeting of children, pregnant women, and frail elderly in situations of armed conflict;
iii) demands that armed services avoid intentionally targeting medical facilities and schools;
iv) seeks greater assistance from the UK Government to support refugees fleeing from the Ukrainian conflict;
v) calls for greater provision of training for Ukrainian healthcare staff;
vi) calls for all parties to peacefully end hostilities.