Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is an international, independent, medical humanitarian organisation that delivers emergency aid to people affected by armed conflict, epidemics, pandemics, natural disasters and exclusion from healthcare. We offer assistance to people based on need and irrespective of race, religion, gender or political affiliation. 
 
We provide medical care to help people survive catastrophic situations, where communities and health structures may be overwhelmed. Our core work is providing emergency medical assistance in situations of armed conflict. 
 
Our actions are guided by medical ethics and the principles of neutrality and impartiality. We do not take sides but seek to bring assistance to those who need it most urgently. In situations of conflict, we do not accept funds from governments or other parties who are directly involved.
 
MSF has a commitment to address the suffering people endure and the obstacles encountered in providing assistance. We are constantly seeking to improve the quality, relevance and extent of our assistance, and we are dedicated to the pursuit of innovation. When we witness serious acts of violence, neglected crises, or obstructions to its activities, MSF may speak out about this.
 
MSF was founded in Paris, France in 1971. Today, MSF is a worldwide movement of 25 associations. MSF International, which binds these associations together, is based in Geneva, Switzerland.
 
MSF is an independent, self-governed, non-profit organisation. It operates programmes in more than 70 countries worldwide. Its work is carried out by tens of thousands of health professionals, logistical and administrative staff, the vast majority of whom come from the countries where the organisation is providing medical assistance.