England's charity watchdog condemned Oxfam GB on Tuesday for having a "culture of poor behavior," in connection with the sexual misconduct scandal involving its workers in Haiti following the 2010 earthquake.
The Charity Commission for England and Wales issued an official warning following an 18-month investigation that concluded Oxfam's culture and response to keeping people safe was inadequate and failed to take risks to alleged victims seriously enough.
The commission said that while management had good intentions, they weren't matched by resources and an organizational culture that prioritized keeping people safe.
"No charity is so large, nor is its mission so important that it can afford to put its own reputation ahead of the dignity and wellbeing of those it exists to protect," commission chair Tina Stowell said.
The Times of London first reported misconduct allegations against seven former Oxfam GB staff in Haiti, including the use of prostitutes some of whom may have been under 18 and downloading pornography.
The commission said Oxfam GB's investigation into the charges was hampered by a "determination to keep it out of the public eye."
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