The French Prime Minister Recognizes AF3M as a Public Interest Association

MPE member, The French Association of Myeloma Patients (AF3M) has been officially recognized as a Public Interest Association (Association Reconnue d’Utilité Publique) by decree dated 5 March 2026 and published in the French Republic Official Journal on 7 March 2026. This prestigious status is granted by the French Prime Minister, following a favourable opinion from the Minister of Health and a binding opinion from the Council of State (Conseil d’État). AF3M now joins a select group of only 61 French public interest associations in the health sector, of which just four focus specifically on cancer.

This is one of the highest distinctions a French non-profit can receive. It recognises that AF3M serves a mission of major public benefit and has a proven national impact, demonstrates strong governance, financial transparency and long-term stability. It also grants enhanced legal capacities, such as the ability to receive donations and legacies under favourable conditions.

Founded in 2007 by 29 myeloma patients and caregivers—with strong encouragement and early support from the French Myeloma Intergroup (IFM)—AF3M has grown steadily over the past two decades. In 2012, the association received official accreditation from the French Ministry of Health as a user association, enabling it to represent service users within hospital and public health bodies. Today, AF3M brings together more than 3,000 members and 200 volunteers across all regions of France.

Laurent Gillot, President of AF3M, and the entire Board of Directors, are confident that this recognition will further strengthen AF3M’s advocacy efforts and deepen its collaboration with Myeloma Patients Europe, thereby enhancing the impact of its long‑standing commitment to myeloma patients and caregivers.