UAE: Emirates Red Crescent Refutes Allegations of Misuse of Field Hospital in Chad

The Emirates Red Crescent has denied allegations of misuse of its field hospital in Chad, stating that it solely provides humanitarian assistance. The hospital, established in July 2023, has treated thousands of Sudanese refugees and Chadian nationals. The ERC criticized the allegations as unfounded and harmful, while highlighting its commitment to serving vulnerable populations without discrimination.

The Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) has firmly refuted allegations suggesting that its field hospital situated in Chad is being improperly utilized. Recent claims suggested that the facility located in Amdjarass was engaged in activities outside the realm of humanitarian aid. According to the ERC, these accusations are entirely unfounded and meritless. In a public statement, the organization expressed its dismay at the politicization of its humanitarian endeavors, which is detrimental to their mission. The ERC clarified that the media report lacked corroborative evidence for its claims, asserting that such substantiation does not exist. Additionally, they rejected implications that they had denied requests by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) for access to the hospital. The ERC stated, “We will work with the IFRC to determine how such entry could have been prevented, as access to the hospital area falls within the jurisdiction of the local authorities in the host country.” Since its establishment in July 2023, the Amdjarass facility has been critical in providing healthcare to vulnerable populations, particularly Sudanese refugees escaping the ongoing conflict in their home country. It was instated following the outbreak of violence in Sudan in April 2023, during which the ERC’s proposal to set up a field hospital within Sudan was declined. The ERC reported that the hospital has treated a combined total of 8,808 Sudanese refugees and 19,658 Chadians, in addition to performing 550 surgeries. Furthermore, the ERC emphasized that their primary objective in operating the Amdjarass facility is the provision of essential medical care amid challenging conditions, stating, “In operating the Amdjarass facility, the ERC’s sole focus remains on providing essential medical care in these challenging circumstances to the most urgent cases.” The organization condemned the allegations as reckless and harmful, asserting that such claims endanger the safety of humanitarian personnel and hinder their capacity to deliver crucial aid effectively. In addition to the hospital in Amdjarass, another ERC field hospital in Abéché has attended to 21,761 patients, showcasing the organization’s commitment to serving civilians indiscriminately, regardless of nationality, age, gender, or political affiliation. The ERC advertently highlighted the significance of these field hospitals as vital resources for civilians in dire need, especially amidst the ongoing crisis. This statement underlines the ERC’s dedication to transparency and integrity in its response to humanitarian needs, amidst the challenges posed by misinformation.

The Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) is a humanitarian organization based in the United Arab Emirates, engaged in numerous charitable initiatives and emergency responses globally. With conflicts uprooting families, particularly in Sudan, the ERC has taken significant steps to establish field hospitals in neighboring countries like Chad to assist refugees. The allegations against the ERC indicate a growing trend of misinformation that can endanger humanitarian operations, highlighting the importance of transparency and public trust in charitable efforts. The facilities established by the ERC aim to provide necessary medical assistance and support to vulnerable populations affected by conflict, thereby reinforcing the organization’s commitment to humanitarian aid.

In summary, the Emirates Red Crescent vehemently rejects allegations of misusing its field hospital in Chad, emphasizing its sole focus on humanitarian assistance. The organization has effectively served thousands of patients since its establishment, despite facing unfounded accusations which it denounces as harmful and detrimental to their mission. The ERC remains devoted to providing vital medical services to those in need, underscoring the critical role that such facilities play amidst ongoing crises. These developments reiterate the necessity for accurate reporting and the protection of humanitarian operations from misleading claims.

Original Source: www.khaleejtimes.com