FAQ

Do volunteers receive any remuneration or benefits?

Volunteers receive the following benefits:

• a monthly stipend
• comprehensive insurance coverage
• round-trip transportation
• room and board in project country

May I request placement in a specific country?

It is usually not possible to honour specific placement requests. MSF asks all volunteers to be flexible and willing to serve where they are needed most. However, special skills and/or restrictions are taken into consideration in each placement. Once a position is offered, the final decision to accept a post is made by the volunteer.

What if I am injured or become ill?

All volunteers must be aware of the risks and dangers of serving with MSF in the field. They must understand that they have no claim against the organization for any injury or illness acquired while participating in any travel or activity conducted by, in support of, or under the auspices of MSF. However, MSF maintains insurance coverage on behalf of its volunteers that provide some direct benefits to injured or sick volunteers (including appropriate care and, if necessary, repatriation) or their beneficiaries. The scope of this insurance is explained prior to departure. Supplementary insurance is the responsibility of the volunteer.

Is there an age limit for volunteering with MSF?

There is no age limit for participation in MSF projects, however, one should be in good health.

Can my family accompany me on a mission?

In most cases, living conditions in the field (security, housing, etc.) make it impossible for volunteers to be accompanied by children or partners who are not participating in the mission. This is particularly true for most initial assignments.

Can I volunteer in the MSF National office in Canada?

Yes, we accept a number of office volunteers and unpaid office interns in our National office.

I'd like to read more about some of the issues MSF addresses. What are some interesting books and papers you recommend?

MSF recommends a number of publications which explore the issues surrounding humanitarian aid, including but not limited to: the history of humanitarian aid; international and humanitarian law; neutrality and advocacy; and the role of the media. Be sure to view our list of publications and recommended reading.

I have another question. Whom should I contact?

If after having read this section of the website you have any questions about volunteering in the field with MSF please contact the MSF Canada office closest to you.

Upcoming Recruitment Info Sessions

Online Webinar
Date: February 16, 2012 at 1:00pm (Eastern Time)
Location: On Line
Space is limited. Please register in advance.

Quebec, QC
Date: February 29, 2012 at 7:00pm
Location: Studio P
Space is limited. Please register in advance.

Sherbrooke, QC
Date: March 8th, 2012 at 7:00pm
Location: Cegep de Sherbrooke
Space is limited. Please register in advance.

Toronto, ON
Date: March 14th, 2012 at 7:00pm
Location: Friend's House
Space is limited. Please register in advance.

Montreal, QC
Date: March 21st, 2012 at 7:00pm
Location: Y des Femmes de Montreal
Space is limited. Please register in advance.

Medical Staff Needed For Global Emergencies

Jean Stowell talks about her work as a midwife for MSF

MSF project coordinator Oonagh Curry in Sudan

More

RSS – MSF feed containing news releases, website updates, vacancies, and events

MSF PODCASTS – Podcasts from MSF missions around the world

FIELD BLOGS – Personal stories of our volunteers working in the field

BULLETIN BOARD – Discussion fora, job postings, and events

MSF ASSOCIATION – Intranet for MSF Association members