UN Chief Warns of Imminent Gang Overrun in Haiti's Capital

Human rights organizations report a severe escalation in violence against children in Haiti, driven by gang recruitment and rampant sexual violence. According to UNICEF, approximately 1.2 million Haitian children face armed violence, and an estimated three million will need urgent humanitarian aid in 2025. Child recruitment by gangs has surged by 70% in the past year, with armed groups controlling 85% of Port-au-Prince. UNICEF reports that half of all gang members are minors, some as young as eight. Emmline Toussaint of Mary’s Meals highlights the coercive tactics used by gangs, including threats to family members. A senior crisis advisor from Amnesty International notes that children from all backgrounds are at risk, particularly those living on the streets. Sexual violence against children has reportedly increased by 1,000% since 2023, creating an environment of fear and trauma. UNICEF emphasizes the urgent need for humanitarian aid, citing a 72% funding shortfall in its 2024 emergency request. As Haiti grapples with political instability, gangs are exploiting the most vulnerable, placing children at extreme risk.

Haiti is grappling with an alarming rise in violence against children, as gang activity intensifies and schools shutter. According to UNICEF, approximately 1.2 million Haitian children are threatened by armed violence, with 70% of recent gang recruits being minors, some as young as eight years old. The organization's representative in Haiti, Geeta Narayan, highlighted the dire situation where gangs have forced children to join under threat of violence against their families. The International Organization for Migration reports that more than one million people have been displaced by violence, with 53% of them being children. These children face severe deprivation, including lack of access to education and basic sanitation. Angeline Annesteus of ActionAid noted that many children live in unsanitary camps, severely compromising their health and safety. Moreover, sexual violence has surged by an astounding 1,000% in Haiti, putting girls at significant risk while they seek basic necessities. UNICEF's James Elder described the conditions as turning children’s lives into “battlefields.” Urgent humanitarian assistance is critically needed, yet UNICEF’s funding request remains largely unmet, further compounding the crisis.

A significant 7.6-magnitude earthquake struck the Caribbean Sea, prompting tsunami warnings for several countries, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The quake's epicenter was located approximately 20 miles north of Honduras and 130 miles southwest of the Cayman Islands. In response, warnings were issued for the coastlines of Colombia, the Cayman Islands, Costa Rica, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Cuba. The National Weather Service cautioned that areas such as Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands could face dangerous currents and waves, advising people to stay away from coastal waters. The USGS indicated that large earthquakes are not uncommon in this region, citing a similar 7.5-magnitude quake in 2018, which caused limited damage and a minor tsunami. The agency noted, "Luckily, the remote location of these earthquakes limits the potential for significant damage due to shaking.” Authorities continue to monitor the situation as residents prepare for potential coastal impacts.