Statement on the Public Health and Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
The Canadian Public Health Association (CPHA) is gravely concerned about the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza. Despite international mediation aimed at halting the conflict and securing the release of hostages, violence and bombardment continue, exacerbating an already catastrophic humanitarian and public health crisis. The hostilities have resulted in a devastating loss of life, widespread displacement, and the destruction of critical health and social infrastructure. Severe restrictions on medical and humanitarian access are contributing to preventable illness, injury, and death, with disproportionate impacts on children, women, older adults, and health workers.
From a public health perspective, the impacts are severe and far-reaching. Overcrowding, lack of clean water, limited access to food, collapsed sanitation systems, and the destruction of hospitals and health facilities are creating conditions that will fuel preventable disease, malnutrition, and long-term physical and mental health harms. The health and well-being of an entire population is at risk.
Consistent with a public health approach to peace and security, CPHA calls on the Government of Canada to:
- Support ongoing diplomatic efforts toward an immediate, sustained ceasefire that ensures the protection of civilians, facilitates the release of hostages, and creates the conditions for rebuilding Gaza’s health and social systems.
- Advocate for unimpeded humanitarian access – including restoration of essential services (health, water, sanitation, electricity) and corridors for medical supplies, personnel, and evacuations – in line with international humanitarian law.
- Review Canada’s trade, diplomatic, and financial relationships to ensure they are not contributing to violations of international law or worsening the humanitarian crisis.
Public health is grounded in the protection of human life, the reduction of suffering, and the advancement of health equity. CPHA stands in solidarity with our colleagues in global health and humanitarian organizations who are working tirelessly under impossible conditions to save lives. CPHA calls for urgent Canadian leadership to alleviate human suffering in Gaza, to protect civilians wherever they are at risk, and to align foreign and domestic policy with the principles of peace, health, and justice.