Humanitary Action: Impartial Aid or Alibi for the Powers That Be? Alain Dubos, Doctors Without Borders Februrary 13, 2004 7:30 pm, Beckman Institute Auditorium, Caltech This event is free and open to the public; no tickets or reservations are required. Co-sponsored with Alliance Francaise de Pasadena

Humanitary Action: Impartial Aid or Alibi for the Powers That Be? Since the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, the answer has been probably both. What began as an impartial movement by several hundred doctors and nurses in the 1970's now includes political, strategic, and military dimensions representing many powerful interests. Humanitarian aid must now come to terms with the scattering of conflicts, their tribal complexity, and the power struggle that can arise between various international organizations and outside pressures.

Biography

Alain Dubos was born in Tunisia and trained in Greco-Roman studies before pursuing a career in medicine. In 1978 he joined Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) and practiced in Thailand, later becoming vice president of the organization. He has written several books describing his experiences in countries as varied as Cambodia, Afghanistan, and Algeria, and about the life of "French Doctors" in general. He is also the creator of the thematic television station, Canal Santé, and travels the world sharing his experiences and ideas.