Haiti

Haiti faces a complex humanitarian crisis driven by political instability, gang violence, poverty, displacement, limited services, human rights abuses, natural disasters, and health emergencies. Nearly half of Haiti’s 11.7 million people, about 5.7 million, are acutely food insecure, with 8,400 in catastrophic phase 5 and around 2 million in emergency phase.

The transitional government plans to hold long-delayed elections by February 2026, a move supported by international partners but met with domestic apprehension over potential legitimization of gang leaders.

Gangs now control approximately 85% of Port-au-Prince, the capital, leading to widespread displacement and insecurity. Recent attacks have forced dozens of families from their homes, with heavy gunfire reported near educational institutions, prompting evacuations.

The United Nations has proposed assuming funding for the logistical and structural costs of a multinational force in Haiti to combat escalating gang violence.

The ongoing violence has severely disrupted access to essential services, including healthcare and education. Only 24% of hospitals remain operational, and approximately 1.5 million children are out of school due to the insecurity. Food insecurity has reached alarming levels, with nearly half of the population suffering from hunger.

The displacement crisis has further strained resources, with host communities struggling to accommodate the influx of IDPs.

The compounded challenges of political instability, pervasive violence, and humanitarian needs emphasize the urgency for coordinated national and international efforts.