2013 Outstanding Peace Activist

Dr. Raphaël Pitti is an accomplished anesthesiologist, resuscitator, and associate professor of emergency and disaster medicine at Val de Grâce, renowned for his humanitarian work in conflict zones worldwide. He began his career as a general physician with the French armed forces and has since served in regions such as the Middle East, Africa, South America, former Yugoslavia, and Ukraine. Since 2012, Dr. Pitti has focused on training healthcare professionals—including doctors, nurses, midwives, and students—in war medicine, ensuring they are equipped to respond to medical crises in conflict areas. His contributions to international health initiatives have extended through partnerships with institutions like NATO and ICPO Geneva, amplifying his impact globally.

In recognition of his dedication, Dr. Pitti was awarded the Legion of Honour in 2017 for his courageous efforts as a war surgeon, often putting his life at risk to save others. His humanitarian spirit goes beyond accolades; he is motivated by a profound commitment to alleviating suffering in the most challenging environments. In 2018, he shared his experiences in his book, Va où l’humanité te porte. Un médecin dans la guerre, which chronicles his work and is available on Amazon.

Alongside his medical contributions, Dr. Pitti also serves as a municipal councilor in Metz, France, where he is responsible for humanitarian, social, and sanitary emergency efforts. His civic engagement includes initiatives to improve lives through social and humanitarian policies, such as his instrumental role in the 2013 friendship charter between Metz and the Civil Committee of Aleppo. He also oversees the Territorial Reception and Integration Contract (CTAI), which helps vulnerable communities integrate and thrive in French society.

“Our humanitarian projects as well as our local social action are committed to defending Life through health training, the preservation of dignity, and the defense of humanity. Humanism must be coupled with action and each and every one of us has a role to play in helping our neighbors.” – Raphaël Pitti, President of HuSoMe