Doctors Without Borders Ends 32-Year Mission in Russia Amid NGO Crackdown

Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), also known as Doctors Without Borders, has concluded its 32-year mission in Russia following its removal from the register of foreign non-governmental organizations. The decision comes as part of a broader crackdown on international organizations by Russian authorities.

MSF, founded in 1971 and recipient of the 1999 Nobel Peace Prize, has been operating in Russia since 1992. The organization, which works in over 70 countries worldwide, has provided essential medical services to vulnerable populations in Russia, including homeless individuals, migrants, and those affected by tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS.

Norman Sitali, MSF's operations manager for Russian programs, expressed regret over the closure:

"We are very sad to end the programs, as many people in need of medical and humanitarian assistance will now be left without the support we could have provided to them. MSF would like to still work in Russia again if and when possible."

The organization's Dutch affiliate, which managed operations in Russia, had its registration withdrawn. However, MSF will maintain a branch office in Moscow, although all operations have ceased.

In recent years, Russia has intensified its restrictions on international organizations, citing perceived threats to state security and constitutional order. Among those banned are environmental groups like Greenpeace and the World Wildlife Fund, as well as media outlets such as The Moscow Times.

MSF's departure is particularly significant given the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, MSF has provided assistance to over 52,000 individuals who either crossed into Russia from Ukraine or were internally displaced within Russia.

The organization had been planning to respond to humanitarian needs in the Kursk region, where Ukrainian forces recently made incursions. This marks the first time since World War II that Russian territory has been under foreign occupation, highlighting the escalating tensions in the area.

MSF's global impact extends far beyond its work in Russia. The organization has treated over 100 million patients worldwide since its inception and played a crucial role in responding to major health crises, such as the 2014 Ebola outbreak in West Africa. With a workforce of over 30,000 people globally, MSF continues to provide essential medical care in conflict zones and areas affected by endemic diseases.

The closure of MSF's operations in Russia raises concerns about the future of humanitarian aid in the region, particularly for vulnerable populations who have relied on the organization's services for over three decades.