HUMANITARIAN EFFORTS DESERVE NOBEL PRIZE

In 1968, there were very few privately funded humanitarian aid groups working worldwide to tend to the needs of those who were starving or in need of medical attention. Even the International Committee of the Red Cross was careful to go only where it was invited. And, in some dire situations, feuding government factions meant no Red Cross aid.

In Paris that year, 10 doctors organized Medecins Sans Frontieres, which is better known in English-speaking countries as Doctors Without Borders. The organization is this year's winner of the Nobel Peace Prize. It was selected because of its aim of providing aid regardless of government bureaucracy or border disputes and because its members have repeatedly risked personal injury to give medical assistance.

Over the years, Doctors Without Borders members have gone to virtually every trouble spot on the globe where medical attention is needed. The recognition from the Nobel prize committee is confirmation of more than 30 years of service to humanity.

Since the start of Doctors Without Borders, other agencies have followed the same model, which means not only is one group of doctors providing invaluable assistance, but members of other organizations also have been encouraged to offer their professional skills where needed.

The Southeast Missourian has published many feature articles about doctors from Cape Girardeau who have traveled -- often more than once -- to remote areas where health care is minimal, to say the least. Each time one of our doctors or dentists goes on such a trip, others are inspired to make their own personal contribution.

These trips are not without peril. In times of conflict, warring factions frequently don't take kindly to medical assistance that is being delivered regardless of government loyalty. In addition, medical professionals who volunteer in faraway places usually find themselves in the most primitive conditions where medical supplies are in short supply or where -- again -- governments control medicine and food like weapons.

Humanitarian aid isn't reserved for doctors, of course. Many churches sponsor short-term assistance to areas where the needs are great. Over the years, National Guard and military reserve units have built schools and roads and provided water systems. Civic organizations have engaged in projects that could never be achieved without the backing of worldwide organizations.

All those who seek to end misery and suffering on our planet deserve a Nobel Peace Prize. Special congratulations to this year's winner, Medecins Sans Frontieres. The thousands of recipients of volunteer health care thank them too.