The International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations (IFMSA) is a non-partisan organization representing more than 1.5 million medical students associated with 136 National Member Organizations (NMOs). It was founded in 1951 as the world was recovering from the devastating impact of the Second World War. IFMSA’s official relationship with the World Health Organization, the United Nations, and the World Medical Association, being recognised as the primary representative of the medical student community, is a testament to the significance of our Federation.

Twice a year, IFMSA holds meetings of its highest decision-making body – General Assemblies, which are constituted by our NMOs. Individuals, the Team of Officials, or external organizations have no authority in this decision-making process. They cannot interfere with decisions adopted by the General Assembly, which are to be upheld at all times by the IFMSA leadership and the NMOs.

On the 6th of August 2024, during the 73rd IFMSA General Assembly, August Meeting held in Tampere, Finland, a motion was proposed by our NMOs in view of potential violations of the IFMSA Constitution & Bylaws, as well as its Code of Conduct. Due to the dire nature of the allegations against the Federation of Israeli Medical Students (FIMS), which included threats against medical students, online harassment and hate speech, NMOs decided to proceed with a vote for the suspension of FIMS. The IFMSA General Assembly, following a comprehensive and inclusive debate with arguments from all sides, eventually decided that FIMS would be suspended, with two-thirds majority of the present and voting National Member Organizations.

While FIMS is currently suspended, it is essential to clarify that this is not a removal from the Federation. The organization retains the right to regain its membership status through a transparent and democratic vote during future General Assemblies until the August Meeting 2026 by getting a two-thirds majority. Currently, FIMS can attend IFMSA events like Regional Meetings and General Assemblies under an observer status. The IFMSA will continue advocating for the vision of empowering all medical students regardless of their backgrounds and ensuring integrity and transparency in all its procedures. Therefore, it should be reiterated that any supposition that FIMS has been removed from IFMSA and/or silenced constitute misinformation. 

The IFMSA strongly condemns all forms of discrimination based on nationality, ethnicity, personal characteristics, religion and other factors that put at risk the right of people to have their own personal identity as a fundamental human right. Any individual stances bearing signs of breach of the IFMSA Code of Conduct taken by general members of IFMSA are not aligned with the views of the Federation, and the IFMSA does not and will not allow discriminatory rhetoric to permeate the structures of the organization. We are committed to upholding these principles and ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all our members.

As we move forward, IFMSA will continue to advocate for the rights and well-being of medical students worldwide, ensuring that our Federation remains a beacon of equity, diversity, and inclusion.

We call upon all internal and external parties to refrain from spreading misinformation regarding this decision and to contact the IFMSA Officials for any inquiries. The decision-making of the General Assembly, our highest body, should be respected and its autonomy preserved. At the same time, any aggressive and harassing behaviours and personal attacks against our members, including the leadership and our NMOs, cannot and will not be tolerated. We hold the protection of our volunteers’ personal space and their mental and physical safety as our highest priority. IFMSA reserves the right to action to protect its members and reputation.