Medecins du Monde (also known as MdM or Doctors of the World) is an international humanitarian aid organization whose volunteers provide medical care and ongoing support for vulnerable populations around the world. Established in 1980 by 15 French physicians, the group has grown into an international network of organizations based in 14 nations, including Japan.

MdM currently oversees 67 different projects in 46 countries, and is active in developing and developed nations alike. In addition to helping in emergency situations, MdM's staff offers long-term solutions, working with local partners to develop medical practices with the aim of providing universal access to health care.

Now celebrating its 20th year here, MdM first arrived in Japan to assist in the aftermath of the Great Hanshin Earthquake that struck Kobe on Jan. 17, 1995. Japan-based entrepreneur Gael Austin helped MdM establish an office in this country and has served as the Japan president since then.