Many of our patients in Serbia, who were attempting to cross the Balkans in search of safety in other European countries, reported that they had been subjected to violence and pushbacks by state authorities at the borders. Others said they had experienced extreme levels of violence, including sexual assaults, in their countries of origin and/or during their journeys. Throughout the year, our teams conducted general medical consultations for people, no matter their housing situation. 

In the southern region bordering Bulgaria, we offered assistance to people on the move. We ran mobile clinics in these areas, delivering general healthcare and distributing essential relief items, such as blankets, warm clothing, footwear, and hygiene kits. We collaborated with local civil society organisations. As well as providing care for victims of physical and psychological violence, including various forms of inhumane and degrading treatment, MSF teams treated people whose health had been affected by freezing winter temperatures and unsanitary living conditions, and a lack of food, clean clothes, and medical care.

MSF continued to denounce the deadly consequences of European migration policies, in particular the increased securitisation and violent measures to which refugees and migrants are subjected, as they attempt to seek safety or continue their journeys to other European countries.