 |
MSF in FranceLast updated: December 2007 MSF in France, 2007Field Staff: 5 Reason for Intervention:
Recent update: All articles on France » 2007 has seen an increase in the number of illegal immigrants deported from France and new attempts to reform asylum policies. In addition, access to the French and European territory is becoming more difficult and administrative procedures for those seeking refuge are increasingly complex. Psychological assistance for homeless and non French speaking refugees in France remains extremely limited. In March, MSF opened a center in Paris targeting particularly those without valid immigration papers who have sought refuge after fleeing conflict, violence or persecutions in their home countries. These people are likely to be suffering psychological distress. Their precarious living conditions only increase their anxiety. Psychological care is essential to avoid deterioration leading to suicide attempts. Most do not speak French and, without valid papers, have little access to healthcare. At its center, MSF provides refugees with psychological and medical care and advises them on the social and legal aspects of their situation. The multidisciplinary team of doctors, psychologists and social workers conducted some 2,700 consultations, including 1,300 for psychological distress. MSF has worked in France since 1987. |
|
|
