The Concern: WONCA’s Perceived Double Standard on Palestine
A central concern driving this campaign is the perceived “double standard” in the response of WONCA and its constituent bodies to the humanitarian crisis in Palestine when compared to actions taken in response to other crises, particularly the invasion of Ukraine.
Sources highlight specific points of contrast:
- Specificity of Action: In the case of Ukraine, WONCA issued explicit calls for solidarity, encouraged members to take specific action, and promoted support for named humanitarian organisations with established infrastructure. WONCA Europe dedicated a conference to Ukraine.
- Perceived Lack of Specificity on Palestine: Public statements and calls to action specifically regarding Palestine are seen by some as lacking the same level of detail, urgency, or explicit direction towards supporting specific humanitarian relief efforts on the ground. The term “deafening silence otherwise” is used to describe the lack of further response from various WONCA bodies.
- Undermining Credibility: This observed inconsistency is argued to undermine WONCA’s credibility and moral authority. It raises questions about the organization’s neutrality, despite the argument that silence is itself a stance.
- Contradicting Ethical Principles: A double standard is seen as contradicting the ethical principles binding doctors, particularly the principle of equality and impartial care.
- Challenging Excuses: The excuse that the Palestine conflict is “complicated” is considered weak given its long history and clear historical narratives like settler-colonialism and occupation. Some sources suggest this perceived inconsistency might reflect underlying racist or religiophobic attitudes or unequal ways in which the Global North relates to the Global South. The continued membership of the Israeli Association of Family Physicians in WONCA Europe is also seen by some as a reflection of support for a “settler colonial project”.
This perceived double standard is a significant concern for family doctors committed to universal justice and ethical practice, prompting calls for WONCA to demonstrate consistent and principled action in all global humanitarian crises.
