A REVIEW OF THE FUNCTIONS AND ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE “DOCTORS WITHOUT BORDERS” MOVEMENT

Back to Page Authors: Abdullah Almahzari

---

Keywords: doctors, health-care, staff, organization

---

Abstract: Since the launch of the “Doctors without Borders” movement in 1971, the organization has achieved its mission of being classified among the largest and most influential international charity organizations globally. The organization aims to provide medical and humanitarian assistance to victims of disaster. It is comprised of more than 40,000 people from diverse origins who provide volunteer service to the various offices and projects the organization undertakes. So far, the movement has a record of working in over 70 countries and the organization has offices on all continents. The staff has demonstrated great love for humanity by being present for casualties of war and natural calamities. The organization provides its services to all victims in unbiased ways, and volunteering opportunities are open to all willing participants. Besides medical and humanitarian services, Doctors without Borders participates in raising funds spreading awareness, recruiting field staff, and advocating humanitarian concerns within the UN. The paper describes the organization’s structure, naming the specialists required to fulfill the organization’s medical goals and as well as its aims beyond medical care. The functions of the subdivisions and the requirements for recruitment of specialists are broadly discussed. The paper shows that the movement is guided by the core values of enthusiasm, professionalism, and determination to work. It also shows that services provided by the teams have been highly successful, with data collected through a review of the company’s database, its approval rating, and interviews.

---