Partnership for Training Professionals in International Solidarity
Institut Bioforce Développement
In 1974 during the devastating meningitis epidemic that was sweeping Brazil, Dr Charles Mérieux managed, in record time, to produce and bring over enough vaccines the entire Brazilian population. This experience convinced Dr Mérieux that it was not enough just to create and produce vaccines, but that it was also essential to have an extremely good system of management and logistics. With this conviction in mind, he created a school in 1983 for humanitarian emergency aid-workers, 'Bioforce Développement'.
A learning and orientation center for those involved in international solidarity, Bioforce offers courses that focus on practical experience in the field. Bioforce's aim is to train qualified operations managers. The content of the modules relate to operational support (logistics, administration, finances and program management) and management of water and disinfection equipment.
Fondation Mérieux remains one of the principal partners of the Institut Bioforce and provides it with important support.
Find out more about Bioforce »
CESH
Dedicated to training and research, the Centre Européen de Santé Humanitaire (CESH) works in the field of humanitarian health. Fondation Mérieux has been a member of this public interest group since its creation in Lyon in 2000 at the instigation of Doctor Charles Mérieux.
The CESH organizes training, symposia and conferences for people working in the field of humanitarianism to consolidate their skills.