MSH defines fragile states as those countries which are unstable and
unable to deliver services effectively to a large part of the
population. Currently, MSH is actively engaged in health projects in
five fragile states—South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the
Congo, Haiti, Liberia, and Afghanistan. MSH has successfully managed
very large health projects over the past 40 years in a number of
fragile states and has learned valuable lessons regarding how to
achieve results under extremely difficult circumstances. One major
lesson learned has been the critical role that community-based health
interventions and well trained and supplied community health workers
play in reducing mortality among women and children. Another important
lesson has been the need to ensure strong leadership that enables
health systems to function even amidst violence and chaos. MSH remains
committed to develop capacity in fragile states to effectively manage
very limited resources under very adverse conditions.
