MSF welcomes Nobel support for peoples’ right to humanitarian assistance

International medical relief organisation awarded Nobel Peace Prize

October 15 1999. The international medical relief organisation Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), was today awarded the international Nobel Peace prize in Oslo. The award honours the work of all national and international MSF relief workers bringing medical assistance in around 80 countries, over 20 of which are in conflict.

"As entire families are chased from their homes in East Timor and as thousands more people are targeted in conflicts around the world which don't make the head-lines, this Nobel prize is an important high level confirmation of the fundamental right of ordinary people to humanitarian assistance and protection" said Dr James Orbinski, MSF's International Council President.