MSF finds staff abuse and exploitation in Chad, prompting reforms

Doctors Without Borders (MSF) released an internal analysis confirming 59 allegations of abuse and exploitation by staff in Chad, including sexual exploitation of female refugees and coercive sex for jobs, with a case involving seven refugee girls misdirected for work and sexually abused. The memo notes power imbalances in humanitarian settings, several reporters silent due to fear of losing aid, and gaps in complaint mechanisms. It also flags recruitment flaws, leading to 18 staff being or nearly being designated as “Do Not Hire” and a lack of a central database to share disqualifications. MSF says it has strengthened reference checks and reporting channels but acknowledges substantial work remains to prevent abuse.