Mission Mongolia

A young Asian democracy, Mongolia's economy is gradually taking off but a third of its population lives below the poverty line and corruption is endemic. In a country where life has remained focused on a traditional nomadic way of life, alcoholism has become a serious problem. Women and children are the first victims of alcohol-induced violence.

Fighting against alcoholism and treating tuberculosis

Ulan-Bator

Activities:

MdM's project is focused on implementing a programme of alcoholism and tuberculosis prevention and treatment amongst people living in a district of yurts (Ulan Bator shanty towns), who are excluded from access to healthcare for administrative reasons. Mongolia suffers from a lack of co-ordination and diversity with respect to therapeutic models for alcoholism, as well as structural problems for treating tuberculosis. A local team, made up of a doctor, nurse and social worker, has been formed. In addition, a partnership has been signed with the Ulan Bator addiction centre.

Outlook:

In January 2006 a fifteen day training seminar is planned, to be attended by three alcohol dependency experts.
We have the following objectives for the coming year:

• screening people living in the target yurt districts who are affected by alcoholism and tuberculosis and directing them towards suitable structures, with mobile MdM medical teams;
• supporting target populations in irregular situations so that they recover their right to health (working together with organisations);
• training and awareness programmes amongst health staff and target populations;
• lobbying of health, police and political authorities with the creation of a co-ordination platform.

July 2006