UN Reports Alarming Surge in Sexual Violence Against Children in Haiti

Port-au-Prince is now dominated by gang violence, with estimates indicating that about 90% of the Haitian capital is under gang control, according to Sky News. The situation has led to severe distress, causing hundreds of thousands of residents to lose their homes and seek refuge in overcrowded displacement camps, where conditions are dire. Reports from the scene describe a palpable fear among families, especially children, who often witness gunfire during their daily routines. Residents are increasingly unable to access safe spaces, as police operations against gangs like the notorious group led by former officer Jimmy Cherizier, known as "Barbecue," struggle to succeed. During a recent patrol, police faced intensified gunfire, forcing them to retreat. Among the displaced, new mother Barbara Gashiwi, who fled her home just days before giving birth, expressed despair about returning. “They pulled guns on us and told us to give up the house,” she recalled. The growing gang warfare has left remaining neighborhoods crowded with people seeking safety, while the Haitian government relocates to safer areas, abandoning those left behind.

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.