MSF Staff Abused Sudanese Refugees in Chad: 59 Victims Findings Spark Scandal

Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has confirmed that staff in its operations in eastern Chad sexually abused at least 59 Sudanese refugees. The abusers allegedly offered food, jobs or other services in return for sex, targeting a range of vulnerable individuals, including young girls.

The incidents, traced back to 2024—just a year into Sudan’s brutal civil war—resulted in the dismissal of 18 staff members. MSF reports that it was unable to identify all alleged perpetrators, according to a recent AP investigation.

MSF’s internal review highlighted patterns that could amount to sexual trafficking. Victims, fearing loss of essential aid, often remained silent, and those who did report abuse sometimes received no response or support. The organization’s complaint procedures were largely ineffective.

MSF publicly acknowledged the misconduct as a serious breach of its values, expressing deep regret for the harm caused. It pledged to strengthen safeguards and better protect refugees.

Contextually, Sudan’s war—triggered over a decade ago between the army and the Rapid Support Forces—has devastated the region. Over 11 million people have fled homes, 28 million face acute hunger, and the death toll may be as high as 400 000.

Sexual violence has been widely documented as a weapon of war in this conflict, with men, women, children and even infants used as targets. The scandal reiterates the need for robust oversight of humanitarian workers, who have faced similar accusations globally.

For a deeper understanding of the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, readers can refer to respective BBC coverage.