The British Medical Association (BMA), the UK’s professional association and trade union for doctors, held its 2025 Consultant’s Conference at the beginning of March. The day included thoughtful discussions, strategic planning, and the approval of two significant motions—one supporting Gaza and another addressing concerns around the Assisted Dying Bill.

The primary purpose of the Consultants Conference is to provide policies for the Consultants Committee (CC) to take forward over the coming year. This ensures that the discussions and decisions made during the conference have a direct impact on future advocacy and policymaking within the BMA.

A key motion was put forward by the Yorkshire Regional Consultants Committee regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The motion strongly condemned human rights violations committed by all parties and called for comprehensive accountability and justice for serious breaches of the laws of armed conflict and gross human rights violations in Gaza, the West Bank, and Israel. The motion also:

1. Noted with dismay that the humanitarian situation in Gaza has reached a critical point, with the healthcare system on the brink of collapse. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that out of 36 main hospitals serving over 2 million people in Gaza, only 17 are partially functional, severely limiting access to medical care.
2. Called upon the UK government and the international community to provide financial support for urgent health needs and the reconstruction of Gaza’s healthcare system.

Another motion addressed the ongoing debate around the Assisted Dying Bill, which continues its controversial journey through Parliament. One motion, proposed by the South Regional Consultants Committee, highlighted ‘serious potential moral hazards for consultants and serious potential adverse impacts on health services.’ The motion successfully argued that if the bill became law, an opt-in model should be adopted, ensuring no consultant is obliged to participate in any part of the assisted dying process. Additionally, it emphasised that assisted dying should not be conducted in NHS or other health facilities, with providers operating under separate contractual arrangements. Both parts of the motion were passed.

BMA is the leading trade union and professional association for doctors in the UK, acting as both a voice for the medical community and a support system for doctors throughout their careers. These outcomes impact it’s ethical direction, reinforcing the importance of Muslim engagement in medical politics. As Muslim healthcare professionals, we must recognise the impact of policy decisions and the necessity of active involvement in shaping them. Whether through the BMA Consultant Conference, BMA branches of practice, regional and national councils, or through one of the Royal Colleges, there are many ways to participate.

Advice for Getting Involved:

1. Engage:
   Our professional spaces, whether in unions, royal colleges, or medical associations, shape policies that affect us and our patients. Some of us need to step forward to ensure diverse voices are represented.
2. Observe and Prepare:
   Watching the process closely for a few years, shadowing experienced members, and learning the nuances of motion-passing prepares you for meaningful contribution. Start by attending meetings, standing for committees, and eventually leading initiatives.
3. Dedicate Time to Understanding Processes:
   Once you grasp the rules and structure of these conferences, you can more effectively push for policies that matter to you. This knowledge allows you to navigate deadlines, submission processes, and strategic discussions.
4. Build Networks and Be Visible:
   People support those they recognise and trust. Whether through in-person networking or social media presence, visibility can make it easier to be nominated and gain backing for motions.
5. Speak and Advocate:
   Being active in discussions and debates ensures your perspectives are heard. The more you engage, the more influential you become.
6. Overcoming Barriers:
   Understanding internal structures, the debate process and procedures helps in ensuring that motions do not just get tabled but are actually passed into policy. Holding firm in discussions is crucial to success.
7. Keep Track of Deadlines:
   Staying updated on emails, motion deadlines, and conference timelines is essential for effective participation.

For those looking to get involved, the BMA website offers resources on writing and submitting motions: BMA Motion Guidance. BMA committees

This conference reinforced the power of strategic engagement. Passing a motion requires not just strong arguments but a deep understanding of the system, effective networking, and persistence. As Muslim healthcare professionals, being part of these spaces ensures our voices are heard, and our values are represented in shaping healthcare policy.