MsF

MSF, short for Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders), is an international humanitarian medical non-governmental organization. Founded in 1971 by French doctors and journalists in response to the Biafran famine and ongoing wars, MSF seeks to provide emergency medical care to people in crisis regardless of race, religion, or political affiliation. The organization is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, and operates through national sections in many countries, coordinating field missions and fundraising.

MSF maintains a policy of neutrality, impartiality, and independence. It aims to deliver medical aid based on need, rather than political considerations, and it strives to preserve its autonomy from government influence and other external actors. Funding comes primarily from private donors, foundations, and organizations, with limited government funding intended to safeguard independent decision-making about where and how aid is delivered.

In its operations, MSF runs emergency response programs and long-term projects in conflict zones, areas affected by disasters, and regions experiencing disease outbreaks. Services typically include emergency medicine and trauma care, surgical programs, maternal and child health, vaccination campaigns, disease treatment, mental health support, and improvements to water and sanitation. Field teams combine international and local staff to deliver care while addressing safety, logistics, and supply challenges in often unstable environments.

MSF received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1999 in recognition of its medical humanitarian work and advocacy on behalf of people in crisis. The organization faces ongoing scrutiny related to safety, access negotiations with armed groups, and resource allocation, reflecting its complex operating contexts.