EPIDEMIOLOGIC ACTIVITIES IN THE MODERN CRIMEA: HUMANITARIAN CHALLENGES AND POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this article is to determine the current organisational and normative policies in Crimea concerning epidemiology, in conditions of seven years of Russian effective control over the Peninsula and ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

Materials and methods: The authors analysed the normative acts, budget and governing practice regarding to the current challenges for epidemiologic activities in Crimea, issued by international structures, by the Ukrainian bodies and Russian de-facto "authorities", comparing the ongoing situation to the international obligations of both conflicting states.

CONCLUSION

Conclusions

The research proves that a systematic medical crisis, caused by Russia's efforts aimed at establishment of its own control over Crimea, resulted in new challenges in COVID-19 pandemic conditions. It is further argued that the activities of the Anti-Plague Station located in Simferopol require attention and relevant international action. States and international organisations with the relevant mandate must pay more attention to the epidemiologic issues in Crimean Peninsula, especially in the framework of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production and Stockpiling of Bacteriological (Biological) and Toxin Weapons and on their Destruction (1972) mechanisms. A new international treaty for pandemic preparedness and response must reflect specific features of interstate conflict situations and illegal occupation of a foreign territory with effective control over its population.