It is easy to write inspiring words to define an organisation’s mission – it is much harder to put those principals in to practice. At the core of MSF’s identity is a commitment to independence, neutrality and impartiality.
These ideals have driven every aspect of our work – from medical care and logistics to finance and communications – since MSF was established in 1971.
Our commitment to these principals, and the impact of the organisation built on them, was recognised in 1999 when MSF was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.
Impartial
We provide free medical care to people who need it. It doesn’t matter which country they are from, which religion they belong to, or what their political affiliations are. All that matters is they are human beings in need.
Neutral
In a conflict situation, we don’t take sides, but go where people’s medical needs are greatest. In the ward of one MSF field hospital, you might find wounded civilians alongside injured soldiers from opposing sides. Hostilities and weapons have to be left at the gate.
Independent
We rarely take funds from governments, businesses or institutions for our work, but rely mainly on the generosity of individual members of the public. Over 90 percent of our income comes from private donors giving small amounts.
This means that when there is an emergency, we don’t need to wait for official funds to be released or for the media to generate interest; we can act fast to save people’s lives based on need alone.
Our financial independence also means the aid we provide cannot be used to further any government’s political or military goals.
Recruiters representing MSF will be available at our next event. Register here
We are a worldwide movement owned and run by our staff, past and present. Collectively, they make sure that MSF stays true to its mission and principles.
Our donors are a vital part of the movement – your generosity and support helps fund everything we do, with 90 percent of our income coming from individual donations. This allows us to stay independent, neutral and impartial – and to access those in greatest need quickly.
We have helped millions of people since MSF was established in 1971. The movement has grown and we now work in over 60 countries around the world, with teams ready for any new emergency.
MSF sections
MSF UK, like the other 20 MSF offices across the globe, work with these OCs to recruit staff and raise the money needed to provide care where it is needed most. They also provide specialist technical support and speak out about on behalf of the people we are helping.
These offices are in Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the UK and the US. MSF has also recently established itself in India and Ireland.
MSF has four other main offices:
- The International Office in Geneva
- UN Liason Office in Geneva
- UN Liason Office in New York City
- An office in the United Arab Emirates
Three specialised public-health centres – called Epicentre, Aedes and HealthNet – work with MSF to help expand expertise in specialist medical issues.
Other units, including supply centres and medical units, also support our activities on the frontline.
Recruiters representing MSF will be available at our next event. Register here
Each year more than 2,500 international staff join 30,000 locally hired staff to provide medical aid in countries around the world. Find out what it’s like to have a career delivering medical aid where it’s needed most.
Working in the field
MSF field staff worldwide give lifesaving medical and technical assistance to people who would otherwise be denied access to healthcare.
Annually, around 3,000 international staff join local colleagues to help populations in danger.
They bring motivation, professional abilities and practical experience to projects in some 69 countries.
The work is tough and demanding, but the rewards are immense. To get an idea of what it’s like, watch the video, or read our field staff blogs.
Working in MSF offices
MSF is always in need of a strong and reliable team of staff, interns and volunteers to help with the general running of our offices around the world.
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