An internal investigation by Doctors Without Borders has revealed a disturbing pattern of sexual abuse and exploitation involving some of its staff in refugee camps along the Sudan-Chad border. The inquiry, conducted in 2024 and completed in July, identified 59 allegations of abuse, including cases targeting underage girls and instances where food or employment opportunities were exchanged for sexual favors.

The report, which was kept confidential until recently disclosed, led to the dismissal and blacklisting of 18 staff members from both local and international personnel. While some allegations could not be conclusively verified or linked to specific individuals, the organization raised concerns that certain patterns of exploitation suggested the presence of organized sexual trafficking networks within the camps.

Doctors Without Borders initiated the investigation following complaints from displaced women accusing aid workers of abuse within sites hosting hundreds of thousands of refugees who fled Sudan’s ongoing civil conflict, now entering its fourth year. The findings underscore the severity and scale of misconduct within the humanitarian operations in eastern Chad, where Doctors Without Borders is among the largest service providers.

Sexual exploitation has continued to plague humanitarian settings despite longstanding efforts by aid agencies to implement prevention measures and accountability frameworks. According to the report, survivors described how personnel responsible for their protection offered monetary incentives, preferential access to assistance, and job placements in exchange for sex.

The extent of abuse identified in Chad is notable given that Doctors Without Borders had allocated additional resources aimed at preventing such misconduct, highlighting ongoing challenges in safeguarding vulnerable populations during complex emergencies. The group has pledged to strengthen oversight and improve protective mechanisms in response to the findings.