Melbourne’s Royal Children’s Hospital has come under fire for cancelling a planned panel discussion on the impacts of war on children, following claims that a body opposing antisemitism had raised concerns about the event.
The seminar, titled Children and War, was scheduled for Wednesday and was to feature hospital staff and external health experts discussing humanitarian rights, refugee health, trauma, and the threat of nuclear conflict.
Two doctors, speaking anonymously, alleged that the cancellation followed a complaint from the anti-antisemitism group. The hospital has not confirmed whether such a complaint was received, but said the decision was made to ensure staff safety.
“The Royal Children’s Hospital is proud to serve children and families across our community. To do this well, it is essential that all staff work in an environment where they feel safe,” a spokesperson said, adding that the hospital’s commitment to caring for children affected by war and crisis remains unchanged.
A paediatrician involved in the event urged the hospital to reconsider, saying: “War, anywhere, is bad for children, and no child is an enemy. I am disappointed that the cancellation reflects that we can’t agree on this most fundamental of truths.”
While the decision has been described as “disappointing and wrong” by some, it has also highlighted the depth of feeling on both sides about how such sensitive conversations should be approached.
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