Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has acknowledged allegations that some of its staff sexually abused at least 59 Sudanese refugees in eastern Chad during 2024, offering food or jobs in exchange for sex. Survivors included minors in some cases, and many said they feared reporting because they depended on aid for survival.
What MSF Found
MSF says it has dismissed 18 staff members linked to the allegations and told the Associated Press that some alleged perpetrators could not be identified. An internal report published in July described recurring patterns of exploitation that may amount to "sexual trafficking." MSF also admitted that internal complaints mechanisms often failed survivors: some reports received no response or support, and formal channels were largely ineffective.
"This misconduct represents a serious breach of MSF's values and responsibilities, and we deeply regret the harm caused," the organisation said in response to the AP investigation.
Context: Sudan's Humanitarian Crisis
Sudan plunged into civil war three years ago after a bitter power struggle between the regular army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The conflict has produced one of the world’s worst humanitarian emergencies: more than 11 million people have been displaced, about 28 million face acute hunger, and estimated deaths range from 150,000 to as many as 400,000. Mass sexual violence has also been documented during the conflict, affecting men, women and children.
Wider Concerns and Next Steps
Allegations of sexual exploitation by humanitarian workers have emerged in multiple countries in recent years, prompting calls for stronger accountability, survivor-centred responses, and independent investigations. Humanitarian organisations, donors and host governments now face pressure to implement robust safeguarding measures, ensure transparent investigations and provide meaningful support and protection to survivors.
What survivors need: accessible, confidential reporting channels; timely medical, psychosocial and legal support; and guarantees that aid will not be withheld in retaliation for speaking out.
