Responding to Health Needs in War and Armed Conflict

AbstractThis chapter covers aspects of systems thinking that could be useful to humanitarian workers responding to health needs in conflict situations. It provides an overview of theories underpinning systems thinking, their use in situations of complexity, and their relevance for conflict and war. It considers how some systems-thinking methods and tools relate to existing best practice for responding to health needs during conflict, and what added benefits these could provide. It includes an analysis of case studies using systems thinking-theories, methods, and practice. Guidelines and principles and codes of best practice have been developed to improve the quality of healthcare and public health provided as part of humanitarian assistance in conflict. However, complex and often rapidly changing circumstances, and the diversity of disciplines and experience needed to respond effectively still present challenges. A greater awareness of systems thinking, and a shared understanding of its potential, could make a valuable contribution to best practice.