The International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations (IFMSA) was founded in 1951 as an organization of medical students, for medical students and by medical students. For more than 60 years, the Federation has not only been a dynamic platform of opportunities for the future physicians but has also served as their voice at the international level. As an international organization, IFMSA is also know by its translations. Recognized translations of this name are 'Fédération Internationale des Associations des Étudiants en Médecine', 'Federación Internacional de Asociaciones de Estudiantes de Medicina' and ' الدولي لجمعیات طلبة الطبالإتحاد'.
IFMSA is the world’s oldest and largest independent organization representing associations of medical students internationally. It currently maintains 133 National Member Organizations from more than 123 countries and areas with over one million students represented worldwide. IFMSA is recognized as a non-governmental organization within the United Nations system and the World Health Organization, and also works with the World Medical Association.
IFMSA was created to impact the world and to empower its members in taking their vision and ideas, and making them a reality. IFMSA has inspired generations of medical students to develop the leadership abilities and skills to take on challenges and to improve the world around them in an early yet crucial period of their career. Engaging in IFMSA encourages both professional and personal collaborations irrespective of geographical, social, cultural, religious, racial, sexual and political differences. As a result, future doctors are becoming more culturally aware and sensitive physicians.
