Political Economy of Health in fragile and conflict-affected regions in the Middle East and North Africa region

Abstract

The Middle East and North Africa region (MENA), is an epicentre of many different types of conflicts [1]. Twelve countries are facing humanitarian crises with unfortunate results ranging from fragility to massive refugees and displacement. These ongoing conflicts have immense health effects, including direct consequences (trauma-related deaths and injuries) and a disruption of the health system leading to increased morbidity and mortality [2]; resulting in a fragile and conflict-effected state. This special issue aims to provide grounded research in the political economy of health in fragile and conflict-affected settings in the MENA region by shedding light on the health status of refugees in the region, policies of the regions’ health systems, and the role of the government and the private sector in providing adequate health care services