Over 1 Million Displaced by Gangs in Troubled Haiti
The United Nations Geneva Office spokesperson, Omondi, recently addressed the dire situation in Haiti during a weekly press conference. Omondi highlighted the significant increase in internal displacement in the country, attributed to ongoing gang violence, the collapse of basic services like healthcare, and escalating food insecurity. Urgent action is needed to address security and other critical needs for the affected population.
In December 2023, the number of displaced individuals in Haiti stood at 315,000. However, the latest data reveals a staggering increase, with over 1 million people currently displaced in the country, many of whom have experienced multiple displacements. The capital, Port-au-Prince, has witnessed the largest number of displacements, leading to strain on health systems across various provinces.
Tragically, over 5,000 people lost their lives in 2024 due to violent attacks by armed gangs in Haiti. The nation, already grappling with political, economic, and security crises, now faces the looming threat of famine, with a population exceeding 11 million. Armed gangs hold control over 80% of the capital, exacerbating the violence and instability in the country.
In response to the escalating crisis, former Prime Minister Ariel Henry resigned in April 2024, leading to the appointment of Garry Conille as the interim prime minister. However, ongoing political turmoil led to the dismissal of Conille, with businessman Alix Didier Fils-Aime stepping in as the new prime minister in November. The situation in Haiti remains critical, with urgent international intervention needed to address the humanitarian crisis and restore stability in the country.
