MSF charter and principles

All MSF members commit to upholding the fundamental principles of our Charter: impartiality, independence, and neutrality.
These values, combined with medical ethics, guide our every action and decision.

The Médecins Sans Frontières Charter

The Médecins Sans Frontières Charter was established in 1971, at the time of the organization's founding. To this day, it remains the foundation of our humanitarian and medical work.

Our work is primarily medical in nature. We strive to provide quality care to people in need, while respecting their dignity, confidentiality, and right to self-determination. We always act in the patient's best interest and according to the principle of "do no harm."

Beyond medical care, our teams also provide—depending on the context—access to shelter, clean water, sanitation facilities, and food aid.

Our core principles

All MSF members are united by three core principles: impartiality, independence, and neutrality.