Feature: Research in crisis zones
Where danger becomes visible
Some regions are characterised by mistrust, conflict and even violence. It takes courage to engage in research there. These photos show the risks to which researchers can be exposed – the dangers you can see, and those you can’t.
This is the final self-inspection in a centre of Doctors without Borders in Butembo (Democratic Republic of the Congo), before you enter the Red Zone where patients with Ebola are examined. It’s not just the virus that’s a threat. The treatment centres are repeatedly subjected to attacks by the mistrustful population. Researchers on the spot work closely together with this NGO. | Image: John Wessels/AFP/Getty Images
Agricultural scientist Matti Barthel of ETH Zurich took this photo while collecting soil samples in the Virunga National Park in Democratic Republic of the Congo. In same region, the Park’s armed guards are fighting both rebels and poachers. This photo was awarded a prize in the SNSF’s competition for science photos. | Image: Matti Barthel/ETH Zurich
After their home defeat in May 2009, hooligans among the fans of FC Zürich tried to attack the fans of FC Basel. In order to make such events safer, academics are conducting research in stadiums. If a researcher on the spot is mistaken for a plain-clothes policeman or a journalist, however, the situation can get out of hand. | Image: Keystone/Patrick B. Kraemer
In Rangoon in Myanmar, the Myint Mo Myittar Single Mothersʼ Foundation helps unmarried women who get pregnant. Researchers on the spot are currently investigating the role of NGOs in Myanmar. They have to take care not to put their local contacts in danger. | Image: Phyo Hein Kyaw/AFP/Getty Images
