The Fellowship accepts applications and reporting proposals on various thematic areas, including but not limited to General Grant (applicants can choose among four themes) or the MSF-DNDi (Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative) Grant for Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs).
1. Refugee Health:
With health and well-being jeopardized during displacement, the lives of the most vulnerable can be on the line. The number of people who have been forcibly displaced across the globe has doubled over the last decade, and their health needs continue to mount. They face displacement, inadequate living conditions, and barriers to accessing healthcare. Critical interventions in refugee health are urgently needed for comprehensive medical services, including mental health support and disease prevention. Restoration of dignity is a key aspect in aiding people on the move. Medical and humanitarian aid plays a key role in safeguarding the well-being of displaced populations. Journalists are expected to cover the health challenges faced by displaced populations, including access to medical care and mental health support. They need to highlight critical interventions and the restoration of dignity for refugees.
2. Maternal and Child Health:
Maternal and child healthcare represents a fundamental human right, but it remains inaccessible for many in crisis-affected or remote regions. Many women across the world give birth without medical assistance in remote or conflict affected areas, massively increasing the risk of complications or death. However, most of these deaths are preventable. There is a need for greater focus on reducing maternal and infant mortality. This can be done through pregnancy and prenatal consultations, emergency obstetric care, postnatal follow-up, and access to family planning services and safe abortion care. Journalists are expected to investigate the barriers to maternal and child healthcare in crisis-affected or remote regions. They need to focus on solutions to reduce maternal and infant mortality, such as emergency obstetric care and access to family planning services.
3. Mental Health:
People living with mental health issues—like anxiety, depression, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)—require specialized care, including group or individual consultations to overcome psychological distress. Certain chronic diseases may also lead to symptoms of psychological distress. In conflict-affected areas, the psychological scars of war and displacement add another layer of complexity to mental health challenges. In settings where health services are weak, individuals with mental illnesses are often neglected and stigmatized. Psychiatric care needs to be a part of general medical services. Psychological aid is vital. Recognizing and supporting those in distress, connecting them to services, and encouraging family and community bonds requires collaborative efforts. Journalists are expected to explore the importance of integrating psychiatric care into general medical services and the need for community support.
4. Emergency Response:
Emergency situations or natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunamis and hurricanes can overwhelm an entire population. Thousands of people can be injured or traumatized by the loss of family, friends and homes. Disasters also compromise access to clean water, healthcare and transport. Rapid medical care and coordinated emergency response are pivotal in saving lives and restoring communities following disasters and outbreaks. Preparedness, adaptability, and immediate action is crucial in public health emergencies. Journalists are expected to document the impact of natural disasters and emergencies on communities, focusing on the immediate healthcare needs and the coordination of rapid medical care. They need to highlight preparedness and adaptability in public health emergencies.
5. Neglected Tropical Diseases:
Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) such as dengue, lymphatic filariasis, and leishmaniasis impact millions globally, especially in South Asia. These diseases are aggravated by inadequate sanitation, limited healthcare access, and poverty. They are predominantly prevalent in tropical areas and lead to significant health, economic, and social vulnerabilities. Despite their widespread effect, NTDs often remain underfunded and overlooked in the global health agenda. Addressing NTDs is not only a matter of health but also of equity and social justice. It aims to uplift the most vulnerable populations and close the gap in global health disparities. Journalists are expected to explore the complexities of NTDs from the lens of gender, pediatrics and climate change. They need to emphasize on the need for targeted interventions such as safe, affordable and effective treatment and improved healthcare infrastructure.
