The saints and sinners of Oxfam
Hurricane Harvey whirls through the aid industry
FOUNDED in 1942, Oxfam is one of Britain’s most recognisable global brands. The charity is the country’s fourth-largest, and the biggest working on overseas aid, with a presence in more than 90 countries. It is also one of the most respected; loved, even, judging by the 23,000 volunteers who turn out to staff its 630 shops, raising around £100m ($140m) a year in sales of second-hand books and musty mink coats.
Now, however, Oxfam has been hit by allegations of sexual misconduct, at home and abroad. The charity’s gleaming reputation has been severely tarnished. Other aid agencies are also becoming embroiled in a story that adds fuel to a debate about Britain’s international-development work.
This article appeared in the Britain section of the print edition under the headline "Saints and sinners"
Britain February 17th 2018
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- The saints and sinners of Oxfam
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From the February 17th 2018 edition
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