The Federation includes the French national association, founded in 1982, and the following subsequently established national associations: Belgium (1986), Switzerland (1996), Luxembourg (1997), Germany (1998), the United Kingdom (1999), Canada (2003) and the United States (2006).

The national associations currently employ 286 people. Through campaign events and lobbying, they raise awareness of Handicap International's causes among the general public and political decision makers.

This network also provides critical fundraising to ensure Handicap International can help the world's most vulnerable the moment they need us. In 2009, Handicap International received contributions totaling $145 million from its national associations.

Role of the national associations in the Handicap International Federation

The Handicap International network, including the Federation headquarters based in Lyon, France, manage more than 310 programs in 63 developing countries at any one time.

National associations in Europe and North American provide operational support and technical expertise, recruit volunteer and professional staff, raise funds and carry out work that is specifically related to their particular national contexts. The Swiss national association, for example, represents the network before international authorities based in Geneva, such as the World Health Organization and the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR). The U.S. national association works closely with the United Nations organizations based in New York, and the World Bank and other key institutions in Washington, D.C. Other national associations work with bi-lateral and multi-lateral donors and groups in their respective countries.