In 2018, the global #MeToo movement turned its attention to the aid industry,
after scandals at Oxfam and Save the Children highlighted the sexual harassment,
abuse and assault prevalent in the sector. This article explores #MeToo in the
context of the aid industry (informally known by many participants as #AidToo),
particularly within a British context. The article argues that the aid industry
exists in a historical, social and political space that is particularly
volatile. The abusive behaviour of men in the sector is shaped and enabled by
race, class and gender inequalities, which undermine many of the stated aims of
international aid programmes. The humanitarian and development aid sector will
not eradicate this behaviour until it recognises how it is enabled and
encouraged by these inequalities. The article argues that the aid sector needs
to develop an ethical code of conduct around sexual relationships, harassment
and abuse that recognises power inequalities within the sector and seeks to
protect vulnerable individuals.
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