 Port-au-Prince: Haiti faces an extreme rise in child sexual violence due to escalating gang control. The United Nations reports a 1,000% increase. Armed groups terrorize communities, leaving children highly vulnerable. Unicef warns their bodies are being used as battlegrounds.
Gang Dominance
Unicef estimates that gangs control 85% of Port-au-Prince. More than one million children face ongoing threats. A 16-year-old girl was abducted, drugged, and repeatedly assaulted. Her family couldn’t pay ransom, so the gang released her.
Lawlessness Spreads
Haiti’s capital is experiencing near-total lawlessness and failing public services. Health facilities have collapsed, worsening humanitarian conditions. Over 5,600 people were killed in gang violence last year alone. Food shortages are deepening the crisis.
Political Instability
Haiti’s transitional council struggles to restore order and hold elections. Leadership changes have stalled democratic progress. Unicef highlights child recruitment into gangs, sometimes by force. Children as young as eight are involved in gang activities.
Lack of Resources
Basic needs like education and healthcare are largely unavailable. Many schools and hospitals barely function. Tens of thousands of children no longer attend school. Unicef set up mobile safe spaces to protect and support vulnerable children.
Funding Shortages
Unicef sought $221.4 million in aid for Haiti last year but received only a quarter. The U.S. foreign aid freeze could further impact relief efforts. Haiti risks being overlooked amid global humanitarian crises. More funding is urgently needed to help affected children.
