Joanne Liu

Canadian pediatrician and former international president of Médecins Sans Frontières

Joanne Liu at Chatham House, 2015

Joanne Liu is a Canadian pediatrician known for her work in humanitarian aid and her leadership role as the former international president of Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), also known as Doctors Without Borders. Her career has been marked by her commitment to providing medical care in crisis situations and advocating for the rights of patients and healthcare workers in conflict zones.

Early Life and Education

Joanne Liu was born in Quebec City, Quebec, Canada. She pursued her medical education at McGill University in Montreal, where she earned her MD degree. Liu further specialized in pediatrics and completed her residency at Sainte-Justine University Hospital Center in Montreal. Her passion for humanitarian work led her to obtain a Master of Public Health from Harvard University.

Career

Médecins Sans Frontières

Liu's involvement with Médecins Sans Frontières began in 1996 when she volunteered for a mission in Mali. Over the years, she participated in numerous missions, including in Central Africa, the Middle East, and West Africa. Her experiences in the field shaped her understanding of the challenges faced by healthcare workers in conflict zones and the importance of providing impartial medical care.

In 2013, Liu was elected as the international president of MSF, a position she held until 2019. During her tenure, she was a vocal advocate for the organization's principles and played a crucial role in responding to major health crises, including the Ebola virus epidemic in West Africa and the Syrian Civil War.

Advocacy and Impact

Liu is known for her strong advocacy for the protection of medical facilities and personnel in conflict zones. She has spoken out against attacks on hospitals and the use of healthcare as a weapon of war. Her leadership during the Ebola crisis was particularly noted for her efforts to mobilize international support and resources to combat the epidemic.

Awards and Recognition

Joanne Liu has received numerous accolades for her contributions to global health and humanitarian work. She has been recognized by various organizations for her leadership and dedication to improving healthcare access in some of the world's most challenging environments.

Related Pages

• Médecins Sans Frontières
• Ebola virus epidemic in West Africa
• Syrian Civil War
• Pediatrics