Introduction

Locally-hired staff, by definition, are contracted by MSF in their country of residence, whether or not they are nationals of that country. This category of MSF staff includes both staff working in MSF offices (sometimes called HQ staff) and staff working in projects and coordination offices where humanitarian programmes are implemented (formerly called “national staff”).

What applies to all locally-hired staff

All MSF contracting offices, whether offices or programmes, abide by the same HR principles as defined in core documents including the MSF Charter, the HR Principles on Staff Mobility and Team Diversity, the Responsible Employer Framework and the Behaviour Commitments.

You work in an MSF Office

MSF Offices around the world have their own specific HR policies that frame the rewards and benefits of their employees.
If you work in an MSF office, the HR Department of this particular entity should be able to provide you with the remuneration policy that applies to its staff, along with internal rules and regulations.

You work in an MSF programme, whether a project or a coordination office

National Staff Intersectional Remuneration and Benefit Policy Framework (also called “Common Frame”) : an Intersectional Commitment

This HR policy document, first adopted in 2011 and most recently revised in 2021, contains all the policies regarding remuneration and benefits that have been approved by all MSF operational sections.

The Common Frame is intended to ensure a common interpretation of being a “Responsible Employer”, improve coherence towards external parties, and facilitate the process towards joint missions.

It is used as a guidance by all actors involved in design, implementation and maintenance of labour terms and conditions for locally-hired staff, though in some locations different measures may be in place as a result of adjustments linked to to local labor laws and other context-specific considerations. For policies applicable locally, please refer to the country’s internal regulation and/or other local policy documents.

It consists of five main areas. 

1. Remuneration Principles 
2. Salary Policy 
3. Social Coverage 
4. Health Care Coverage 
5. Other Benefits and Provisions 

Access the Full Common Frame Explainer here

In addition to the common Frame, the MSF reference function grid and classification system (the IRFFG) ensures all positions are graded consistently.