Doctors Without Borders employees accused of sexually exploiting 59 Sudanese refugees

Doctors Without Borders (MSF) is facing serious allegations after 18 of its employees were accused of sexually exploiting at least 59 Sudanese refugees. The refugees, who had fled their country due to civil war, were allegedly subjected to sexual harassment, exploitation, and abuse, primarily in refugee camps in Chad, which borders Sudan.

The accusations, first reported by the Associated Press (AP) in November 2024, suggest that some MSF staff used offers of food or employment as leverage to exploit refugee women. Reports indicate that some staff also demanded sexual favors. The investigation, prompted by the initial AP report, led MSF to conduct an internal review, culminating in a report last July. The details of this report were recently made public through AP.

According to the report, at least 59 women were victims of sexual exploitation. Many of these women reportedly felt unable to come forward with accusations due to fear of losing access to medical services or employment opportunities if they refused the advances. Some victims who did attempt to report the issues allegedly did not receive adequate support, and multiple complaints reportedly went unaddressed.

MSF has stated that the alleged misconduct represents a "serious violation of the organization's values and responsibilities" and expressed "deep regret" for the harm caused. However, the organization has not disclosed the specific positions of the accused employees, citing privacy concerns. The report also noted the inclusion of minors among the victims.

The ongoing civil war in Sudan, which began in 2023 between the government forces and rebel groups, has displaced over 11 million people and resulted in an estimated 150,000 to 400,000 deaths. The sexual exploitation allegations add another layer of suffering for those already displaced and vulnerable.