We investigate allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse in humanitarian settings, working to protect survivors and ensure aid agencies uphold their values.
Safe Aid Alliance works independently to investigate allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse in humanitarian and development work. When aid workers abuse their power, we help bring accountability—not through public scandal, but through rigorous investigation and direct engagement with aid agencies.
We believe in aid agencies and their commitment to helping vulnerable populations. We also believe that no amount of good accomplished through aid justifies the suffering of those harmed by aid workers.
Sexual exploitation and abuse by aid workers is endemic across the humanitarian sector. It affects some of the world's most vulnerable populations at their moment of greatest need.
The vast majority of survivors are women and children. They are often already impoverished, dependent on aid for survival, and in asymmetric power relationships with aid givers who hold positions of authority.
Survivors face multiple barriers to speaking out:
The problem is widespread and systemic. A 2002 investigation found 70 perpetrators across 40 aid agencies in West Africa alone. More recent data shows that 74 allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse were tracked by the UN in just five months of 2024, with nearly 30% involving survivors under 18.
The issue is not that aid agencies are inherently corrupt or intentionally harmful. Most aid agencies are unaware of abuse occurring within their operations. The problem exists wherever there is a power imbalance combined with vulnerability and weak oversight. This is why independent, external investigation and accountability mechanisms are essential.
We've built a global network to investigate allegations professionally, protect survivors, and engage directly with aid agencies to drive accountability.
Survivors can report allegations through confidential channels. We understand the fear and barriers to speaking out.
Our team of experts carefully weighs evidence against rigorous standards. We gather documents, timelines, corroborating accounts, and contextual information. The survivor's wellbeing is our highest priority throughout.
When our investigation finds evidence justifying serious concern, we protect survivor identities at all costs to ensure their safety and wellbeing. We work to prevent retaliation and further harm.
We contact the relevant aid organization directly with our findings and recommendations. We work with them to investigate and take appropriate action. Most cases can be resolved through internal mechanisms that preserve the agency's ability to do good work.
If an organization refuses to investigate substantiated allegations or take action to protect survivors, we escalate through our network of media contacts and advocacy partners. We believe that when internal processes fail, public accountability becomes necessary.
If you have experienced or witnessed sexual abuse or exploitation in an aid setting, we want to hear from you. Your wellbeing is our highest priority.
Email:
We respond within 48 hours. You can remain anonymous. Share whatever details you feel safe sharing—you don't need to have everything.
If you are in immediate danger, contact local law enforcement or emergency services first. Safe Aid Alliance complements, but cannot replace, national legal systems.
Have questions or want to get in touch?