Medical Association for the Prevention of War

The Medical Association for the Prevention of War (MAPW) was founded in 1951 to study all aspects of physicians' concerns on war, and in particular the ethical responsibilities of doctors in relation to war. Three working parties were set up: on the misuse of science; psychological aspects of war; and the international role of medicine. From its inception MAPW made its presence felt with protests, such as that in 1952 against a British government embargo on the export of medical supplies to China. Activities diminished during the 1960s and early 1970s, but the investigation into issues of peace and conflict was maintained with MAPW conferences and publications, which reached an international audience. When the group International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War (IPPNW) was formed in 1980, MAPW became an affiliated organisation. The formation, at the same time, of the Medical Campaign Against Nuclear Weapons (MCANW) posed some problems of identity, but MAPW continued with its aims while co-operating with MCANW on nuclear issues. In 1992 MAPW merged with the MCANW to form Medact (Medical Action for Global Security). The compiler and donor, Dr Alex Poteliakhoff, who has worked in general practice and in hospitals, joined MAPW in 1951. He has been active in the organisation, serving as Treasurer, Secretary and Vice-Chairman.

From the guide to the Archive of the Medical Association for the Prevention of War, 1951-1996, (GB 532 Bradford University Library)