Investigation started in November

Two Oxfam employees working in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have been suspended over bullying and sexual misconduct allegations.

It comes just weeks after the Charity Commission ceased its formal supervision of the organisation and a ban on applying for government funding was lifted.

The charity has taken action against the employees, who work in the Democratic Republic of Congo, as part of an investigation which started in November. The Charity Commission confirmed that it was notified as soon as the investigation began.

A Times article reported that some Oxfam staff believe there is “a culture of bullying and impunity” in the charity’s work in the country.

An Oxfam spokesperson said: “We can confirm we have suspended two members of Oxfam staff in the Democratic Republic of Congo as part of an ongoing external investigation, which we set up last November, into allegations of abuses of power, including bullying and sexual misconduct. 

“The Charity Commission were notified at the start of the investigation and we have kept them informed about its progress.    

“We are acutely aware of our duty to survivors, including in supporting them to speak out safely. We are working hard to conclude the investigation fairly, safely and effectively.”