The International Federation of Blood Donor Organizations (also known as FIODS)

Why was the International Federation of Blood Donor Organizations established ?

The goal of the IFBDO is self-sufficiency in the member states in blood from voluntary, unpaid blood donors. At the same time we want to improve confidence in the national blood supplies as much as possible, i. a. by harmonizing the minimum security standards for donations, inspection etc. For more details see the Statutes and the Rules of procedures of the IFBDO

Why should a national donor organization participate in international cooperation within the IFBDO ?

To represent the interests of its donors - and the donors from other countries - in international fora such as the Council of Europe, the WHO and the European Union - and in professional organizations such as the ISBT and the EPFA’

- To support the cause of voluntary, unpaid donation for ethical reasons - and for the protection of a human right, as no-one should need to sell a part of his own body.

- To strengthen voluntary organizations in other countries - also in its own interest. Together we will be stronger vis-a-vis authorities such as the European Union, and also towards our own national authorities

- To show solidarity with patients and donors of other countries - such as donors and patients in Eastern European countries and in other parts of the world - and to enhance the possibility for import of blood products in emergencies.

- To strengthen its image within its own country - especially towards the younger generation, which often has a strong interest in international cooperation and solidarity.

to open up for economical support from sources, allocated for international cooperation (a national lotto, the Ministry of Health, funds for cooperation with the Baltic and Eastern European states, perhaps even from the EU, NATO or the Council of Europe.

- To open for volunteer involvement in international cooperation, including training of young volunteers, campaigning, negotiation skills etc.

- To travel and to meet other donor organizations, exchanging experiences and learning from the work of other, using the campaign materials, TV spots etc. etc. most often for free !!

- To match the international cooperation of the blood-banks, of their staff and - perhaps most important - to counterweight the influence of large, multinational companies, which work in this field.

Of course you would be invited to the general assembly every year

The member-ship fee for a country in normal circumstances is 610 Euros, while member organisations in difficult situations pay less, down to 150 Euro. The admission of a new organisation is done after an application has been sent to the Secretary General, which then will be voted upon by the appropriate Regional Group and in the General Assembly.