Statement on the Russian Invasion of Ukraine

The O’Brien Institute for Public Health at the University of Calgary stands in solidarity with the citizens of Ukraine during this inexcusable attack on their country by Russia. The O’Brien Institute includes over 1000 members working in public health with a common vision of advancing public health through research excellence.

The invasion of Ukraine is a humanitarian disaster. More than 1 million people have become refugees and many more have been displaced from their homes. Hospitals, schools and other critical infrastructure are being destroyed, civilian areas are being attacked by Russian forces, and many innocent people have already been injured or lost their lives. The immediate impact on all aspects of the lives of the Ukrainian people, including their access to medical care, food and other essentials for life, is immense. Historical data clearly show that armed conflicts have profound and widespread impacts on public health. The unfathomable humanitarian crisis unfolding will have long-term consequences for the physical and mental health of Ukrainians and for the delivery of health care in Ukraine and other countries that are offering sanctuary to refugees fleeing the conflict.

We call for the immediate protection and safe passage for all seeking to leave the Ukraine, the creation of a humanitarian aid corridor to assist those remaining and at risk in Ukraine, and a cessation of the unjustified invasion by Russia.

For those members of our Institute who are able, donations to the Canadian Red Cross can be made to help with the international relief efforts for Ukraine at: Donate to the Ukraine Humanitarian Crisis Appeal - UHCA MWF Don (redcross.ca).

Here is a list of other organizations to support, including NGOs, Ukrainian businesses, and other government initiatives.

Tom Stelfox, MD, PhD, FRCPC, FCAHS
Scientific Director

Christine Friedenreich, PhD, FCAHS, FRSC
Associate Scientific Director

Jamie Day, PhD
Administrative Director