Louis Schittly

French physician and humanitarian

Louis Schittly (born 1938) is a French physician and humanitarian known for his work with Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) and his contributions to global health initiatives. He has been involved in numerous humanitarian missions across the world, providing medical care in conflict zones and areas affected by natural disasters.

Early Life and Education

Louis Schittly was born in 1938 in Alsace, a region in northeastern France. He pursued his medical studies in France, where he developed a keen interest in global health and humanitarian work. His early experiences in medicine laid the foundation for his future career in international medical aid.

Career

Médecins Sans Frontières

Louis Schittly in 2018

Schittly joined Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) shortly after its founding in 1971. MSF is an international humanitarian medical organization known for its projects in conflict zones and in countries affected by endemic diseases. Schittly's involvement with MSF marked the beginning of a long and impactful career in humanitarian medicine.

During his time with MSF, Schittly participated in numerous missions, providing medical care in some of the most challenging environments. His work took him to countries such as Afghanistan, Ethiopia, and Rwanda, where he witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of war and poverty on health.

Humanitarian Missions

Throughout his career, Schittly has been involved in various humanitarian missions beyond his work with MSF. He has worked with other organizations and initiatives aimed at improving health care access in underserved regions. His efforts have focused on providing emergency medical care, training local health workers, and advocating for better health policies.

Philosophy and Impact

Schittly is known for his commitment to the principles of humanitarianism and medical ethics. He has often spoken about the importance of neutrality and impartiality in delivering medical aid, emphasizing that health care should be accessible to all, regardless of political or social circumstances.

His work has had a significant impact on the field of humanitarian medicine, inspiring many young doctors to pursue careers in global health. Schittly's dedication to his patients and his advocacy for equitable health care have earned him respect and recognition in the medical community.

Later Life

In his later years, Schittly has continued to be active in the field of global health, although he has taken on more of an advisory role. He remains a vocal advocate for humanitarian causes and continues to share his experiences and insights with new generations of medical professionals.

Related Pages

• Médecins Sans Frontières
• Humanitarian aid
• Global health
• Medical ethics