About the MSF Association
Médecins Sans Frontières / Doctors Without Borders (MSF) is a vibrant movement made up of people from all corners of the world.
Each of them shares a common purpose: to save the lives and alleviate the suffering of people in danger by delivering medical care where it is needed most.
Our success over nearly 50 years is a testament to these people, who have dedicated their time and expertise to MSF’s work overseas and at home.
To continue this success our staff – past and present – can shape the movement’s future by becoming a member of an MSF association.
Today, MSF is made up of 25 associations – organisations owned by members. The associations make sure that MSF remains true to its purpose, principles and values and help shape the future of the MSF movement.
How do MSF associations work?
Becoming a member means taking collective responsibility for MSF. And because the people making the decisions have worked with MSF, the organisation stays focused on medical care and our core principles: independence, impartiality and neutrality.
The MSF UK/IE Association
In Ireland, Association members elect the Board of Trustees, who govern on their behalf.
The Board of Trustees is ultimately responsible for what MSF Ireland does. It appoints our Executive Director, takes responsibility for the actions of MSF Ireland and works to guarantee that the MSF principles are respected.
The Board delegates the implementation of the strategy to the MSF Ireland management team, who run the office day-to-day. Every six weeks the Board meets to ensure MSF Ireland is well run and achieving its objectives.
Every year, usually in May or June, the Association gathers at the Annual General Meeting, the heart of MSF Ireland's internal democracy.
If you are an MSFer, you can access the UK/IE Association website.
The MSF movement
Elected representatives from Ireland meet together with colleagues from the other MSF associations contributing their voices to the global discussions shaping MSF’s work.
During the annual International General Assembly the MSF President is appointed and an International Board chosen. They are responsible for bringing coherence to our vibrant and diverse movement.
Who can become an association member?
MSF overseas staff, office staff and office volunteers may apply to join after they have worked with MSF for six months.
Their contribution to MSF may have been with any section and in any project country. They do not have to live in Ireland, nor be an Irish citizen.
How to join?
The first step is to complete this online application form. We will review your application then be in touch with the next steps.