WFOT recognizes the importance of humanitarian aid that has a critical role in ensuring equitable access to health systems for all vulnerable populations around the world. Humanitarian aid provides essential medical care, supplies and support for communities facing crises, both during and following events such as conflict, natural disasters or public health emergencies.
Humanitarian aid is vital to save lives, provide food and shelter and assist people to regain stability in order to engage in activities of everyday life. Occupational therapists understand the importance of participation in daily activities to meet basic needs, promote mental health and quality of life, enable community resilience, and help people and communities to recover from the effects of a crisis.
WFOT supports actions that facilitate the provision of humanitarian aid and works with international groups and agencies to promote access to health systems and other services for people in need.
WFOT abhors and does not condone actions intended to interfere with the provision of aid and services. People providing and receiving assistance must be protected from risk in the provision of humanitarian aid.
WFOT understands that many people around the world live in areas of conflict and demands adherence to international laws that enables access and safety for humanitarian response.
