Preventing war through non-violent direct involvement in conflict: II. Proposal for the role of IPPNW

IPPNW now considers prevention of all violent armed conflict as one of its core objectives, as such conflict is incompatible with health. Secondary prevention of war must involve early detection of volatile conflicts and their effective treatment by non-violent but direct intervention. Such non-violent direct interventions in conflict (NVDIC) are most desirable but currently underdeveloped. Most importantly they do not enjoy the prominence that would facilitate their wide understanding, acceptance and support. This article discusses ways in which IPPNW can best use its experience and resources to engage more appropriately and systematically in NVDIC. It is suggested that participation in observation and mediation missions, direct health related work, public promotion of health and environmental concerns, prominent involvement of women, use of health professionals' status, support of peace-promoting local health professionals, use of local knowledge and experience of IPPNW affiliates, psychological analysis and, most of all, co-operation with groups currently developing NVDIC are domains in which IPPNW can do great work. There are, however, many unresolved ethical and practical questions. It is therefore of the greatest importance that organizations such as IPPNW should be involved in ongoing research on NVDIC. NVDIC must be developed in a framework of evolving appropriate research methodology addressing both its effectiveness and mechanisms of action.