Legal Guarantees for Healthcare Workers During Epidemics and Emergencies
Keywords:
Legal guarantees, healthcare workers, epidemics, emergencies, international law, labour protection, ILO convention, human rights, burnout, personal protective equipment (PPE).Abstract
The article examines the legal guarantees for healthcare workers both in historical periods and in the modern world, with a focus on their protection during epidemics and emergencies. Particular attention is paid to international legal norms, such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, ILO Convention No. 155, and WHO International Health Regulations, which form the foundation for protecting healthcare workers. Examples of national regulations in Uzbekistan, the USA, and EU countries are discussed, highlighting major challenges such as resource shortages, legal insecurity, and professional burnout. The conclusion outlines proposals to strengthen legal protections, including the development of an international document regulating healthcare workers' rights during crises.
References
World Health Organization. "The Impact of COVID-19 on Health and Care Workers: A Closer Look at Deaths." WHO, 2021.
United Nations. Universal Declaration of Human Rights, 1948.
International Labour Organization. Convention No. 155 "On Occupational Safety and Health," 1981.
World Health Organization. International Health Regulations, 2005.
United Nations. International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, 1966.
World Medical Association. Geneva Declaration, Revised in 2017.
WHO. Code of Practice on the International Recruitment of Health Personnel, 2010.
Federal Law No. 323-FZ "On the Basics of Health Protection of Citizens," Russia, 2011.
The Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA), USA, 1970.
European Commission. Directive 89/391/EEC, 1989.
