Switzerland suspends financial support for Doctors Without Borders over sexual abuse scandal in Chad

Switzerland has suspended $1.52 million in funding to Doctors Without Borders (MSF) following allegations of sexual exploitation involving humanitarian workers in refugee camps in Chad.

According to ZeroHedge, citing Swissinfo, the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation withheld CHF1.25 million from its annual CHF6.25 million commitment to the organisation.

Swiss authorities accused MSF of failing to adequately report allegations involving staff members and Sudanese refugees.

An internal investigation identified 59 allegations of sexual abuse and exploitation, including claims that humanitarian assistance was exchanged for sex.

MSF subsequently dismissed 18 employees, including six affiliated with its Swiss branch.

The organisation acknowledged shortcomings in its handling of the allegations.

“This misconduct represents a serious breach of MSF’s values and responsibilities,” MSF Secretary General Laura Leyser said.

Swiss authorities are considering further sanctions and an independent investigation.

The government also plans to introduce stricter reporting requirements for humanitarian organisations receiving public funding from 2027.