Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) delivers emergency medical relief to populations whose health is threatened by war, civil strife, epidemics or natural disasters. A private, nonprofit organization, MSF was founded in 1971 by a small group of French doctors determined to respond rapidly and effectively to public health emergencies, with complete independence from political, economic or religious powers. Today, over 2,900 doctors, nurses, other medical professionals and logisticians representing 45 nationalities volunteer with MSF each year. They work in nearly 70 countries, restoring health and hope to millions. In emergencies and their aftermath, MSF relief teams provide primary health care, perform surgery, rehabilitate hospitals and dispensaries, run nutrition and sanitation programs, and train local medical personnel. They work in front-line hospitals, refugee camps, nutrition centers and remote health clinics. MSF is organized as a network of 19 offices worldwide and its president was Dr. Philippe Biberson. When the prize was awarded.