RPS fully recognises the appalling position in which innocent people find themselves because of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. We share the concern of our members for the welfare of civilians and healthcare workers caught up in the terrible situation.

RPS last issued a statement regarding the conflict in Israel - Gaza on 19 October 2023, which was itself an update of an earlier statement that reflected our ongoing and deep concern about the very serious impact this conflict is having on civilians and the healthcare workforce. This statement was made in alignment to the position taken by FIP (17 Oct 2023) of which we are a member.

Sadly, nothing appears to have improved in the period since, in fact much has worsened, and we are again calling on governments and those who are in a position of influence to use that influence constructively and as quickly as possible to address the humanitarian crises and relieve the suffering of the innocent.

RPS is all too aware that the conflict in Gaza is not the only terrible situation in which civilians and the healthcare workforce find themselves under threat. There are many situations across the globe in which conflicts and natural disasters place civilians and healthcare workers in harm’s way and we will speak out on these issues, as we have in the past, when it is both right to do so and it falls within the remit of the Society.

We are aware of guidance that the Academy of Royal Medical Colleges has produced for their members, and of the recent statements by various Royal Colleges regarding Gaza and other conflict zones. We will take these into consideration to further inform our approach and when considering whether it is appropriate to issue statements relating to any conflict or catastrophe. We will continue our dialogue with FIP, as the international pharmacy body, and with others to call for the protection of the innocent.

RPS will continue to provide all refugee pharmacists fleeing war and conflict areas three years free membership of RPS to help them practice in Great Britain.

Should members wish to donate medicines, RPS advice is, from Chapter 3 section 3.7.8 of Medicines Ethic and Practice, to consider World Health Organisation guidance before doing this. The guidance is intended to improve the quality of medicine donations in international development assistance and emergency aid. Good medicine donation practice is of interest to both donors and recipients.