An independent investigation has found over 80 alleged cases of sexual abuse and assault at the hands of aid workers in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Geneva, September 30 (RHC)-- An independent investigation has found over 80 alleged cases of sexual abuse and assault at the hands of aid workers in the Democratic Republic of Congo during the Ebola outbreak between 2018 and 2020.  Twenty of those involved were World Health Organization employees.  

Dozens of survivors spoke to investigators.  Among the accounts, there were nine allegations of rape; sexual harassment and intimidation by superiors at work; and the promise of favors in exchange for sex. 

In Geneva, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom issued an apology to survivors.  “I’m sorry.  I’m sorry for what was done to you by people who were employed by WHO to serve and protect you. I’m sorry for the ongoing suffering that this event must cause.  I’m sorry that you have had to relive them in talking to the commission about your experiences.”