MSF staff abused Sudanese refugees in sex‑for‑food scandal

Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has confirmed that its staff sexually abused at least 59 Sudanese refugees seeking safety in eastern Chad. Victims were often young girls offered food or jobs in exchange for sex.

The incidents date back to 2024, a year into Sudan’s still‑raging civil war. MSF has fired 18 staff members but admits it could not identify all alleged perpetrators.

Internal investigations suggest the misconduct may amount to sexual trafficking, with victims sometimes fearing retaliation if they report abuse. Many reported no support after the abuse was revealed, revealing gaps in MSF’s complaint procedures.

MSF’s statement acknowledges the breach of its values and expresses regret for the harm caused.

The Sudan conflict, which began three years ago, has caused a humanitarian crisis with over 11 million displaced, 28 million facing acute hunger, and an estimated 150,000 to 400,000 deaths. Sexual violence is widely documented as a weapon of war, targeting men, women, children, and even infants.

Humanitarian workers worldwide have faced accusations of sexual exploitation, despite pledges to end such abuse.