The Ministry of Health has announced that Union Minister Dr. Zaw Wai Soe attended the 2024 Annual Conference of the American Public Health Association, where he formally accepted the Edward Barsky Award on behalf of the dedicated healthcare heroes of Myanmar's Spring Revolution and the Ministry of Health under the National Unity Government (NUG).
The award ceremony was held on October 27 at 6:00 p.m. in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA. Union Minister Dr. Zaw Wai Soe accepted the honor in recognition of the extraordinary commitment and bravery of Myanmar's healthcare workers during the Spring Revolution.
The Union Minister, Dr. Zaw Wai Soe, remarked that this award is dedicated to the healthcare workers who have suffered harm and lost their lives as a result of the violent actions of the military junta during the Spring Revolution. It is also dedicated to those healthcare workers who have been arrested and oppressed, as well as to those who are diligently striving to provide healthcare services to the populace on the frontlines and in various regions. We must pay tribute to their invaluable contributions. The global community should not remain silent regarding the ongoing violations of health and human rights in these circumstances. We must amplify our voices to safeguard the people of Myanmar, particularly the healthcare workers and medical facilities, from targeted assaults. International and health organizations ought to advocate for the protection of healthcare workers not only in Myanmar but also in conflict-affected regions such as Sudan, Ukraine, Gaza, and Israel, and work to prevent the healthcare sector from being weaponized. Healthcare is a fundamental human right and should not be regarded as a tool of warfare.
A Myanmar delegation, led by Union Minister for Education and Health of the National Unity Government (NUG), Professor Dr. Zaw Wai Soe, attended the ceremony. The delegation included Deputy Minister U Moe Zaw Oo from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as healthcare workers involved in the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM).
Since the military’s unlawful attempt to seize power in 2021, healthcare workers and other professionals participating in the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM), alongside community-based health organizations, have courageously provided healthcare services to populations in conflict-affected areas, undeterred by the dangers and challenges posed by threats from the oppressive military council. In partnership with the NUG Ministry of Health, they have steadfastly worked to establish community-led healthcare systems, an achievement for which they have been honored with this award.
The efforts of the heroic healthcare workers and the Ministry of Health during Myanmar's Spring Revolution exemplify resilience and strength, offering hope to those who persist in the pursuit of peace and justice within the country.
The Edward Barsky Award is a distinguished accolade that honors organizations and individuals who have made significant contributions to the fields of health, social justice, and human rights.
Comments