A well-known medical charity, Doctors Without Borders, has decided to end its operations in Russia after being removed from the list of approved foreign organizations by the Russian justice ministry. This move follows a trend of Western-funded charities, rights groups, and NGOs suspending their activities in Russia since the country’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Despite having run numerous programs in Russia since 1992, Doctors Without Borders expressed sadness over the closure of its activities in the country. The decision by the justice ministry affected the Dutch branch of the organization, effectively ceasing its presence in Russia.
The charity mentioned that it had to comply with the ministry’s decision, leading to the termination of contracts with staff and the closure of operations in Russia. Despite the challenges, Doctors Without Borders highlighted its significant humanitarian aid efforts in the region, providing support to thousands of refugees and displaced individuals, including medical and mental health services.
The organization’s spokesperson confirmed that they had a considerable presence in Russia, with over 50 staff members and a substantial financial commitment to programs in the country. Expressing a desire to resume work in Russia in the future, Doctors Without Borders emphasized the impact of their departure on the vulnerable populations they had been assisting.
In a statement, the operations manager for Doctors Without Borders in Russia expressed regret over the situation, underlining the importance of the organization’s support for those in need of medical and humanitarian assistance. Despite the current circumstances, the charity remains hopeful about the possibility of returning to work in Russia at a later time.