Xavier Emmanuelli, Humanitarian Pioneer and Founder of Samu Social, Dies at 87

Xavier Emmanuelli, a towering figure in French humanitarian aid and co-founder of Médecins sans frontières, passed away on November 16, 2025, in Paris at the age of 87, likely due to a cardiac event. His death, announced by Samu social, which he founded in 1993, marks the loss of a visionary committed to aiding society's most vulnerable.

Emmanuelli earned his medical degree in 1967 and was instrumental in founding Médecins sans frontières in 1971, an organization recognized with the Nobel Peace Prize for its medical relief work in crisis zones. His creation of Samu social—an emergency service in Paris providing shelter and aid to homeless people via the 115 helpline—has since inspired the establishment of over fifteen Samu social organizations worldwide. These organizations now assist not only homeless people but also street children, refugees, and those living in extreme poverty.

Beyond his medical and humanitarian endeavors, Emmanuelli contributed to public service as Secretary of State for Emergency Humanitarian Action from 1995 to 1997 under Prime Minister Alain Juppé. He also presided over the High Committee for Housing of Disadvantaged People from 1997 to 2015 and served as chief physician at Fleury-Mérogis prison from 1987 to 1993. Throughout his career, he was critical of bureaucratic social responses, emphasizing the need for human connection in emergency aid.

Prominent French figures including Xavier Bertrand and Frédéric Valletoux have praised Emmanuelli's lifelong dedication to innovating aid for marginalized populations. His leadership and legacy continue to influence France and international humanitarian efforts, embodying a commitment to solidarity and compassion that spanned more than 25 years.

Xavier Emmanuelli's passing leaves a profound void in humanitarian circles, but his pioneering work and organizations remain a testament to his enduring impact.