Haiti: ‘The situation on the ground is very critical’, Humanitarian Coordinator warns
She updated journalists in New York on Wednesday on the worsening situation in Haiti, which has deteriorated significantly since the arrival of a new Prime Minister on November 11.
The confirmed toll of gang violence this year has reached more than 4,000 deaths, although the actual toll is likely higher and there are an estimated 700,000 internally displaced people across Haiti – half of That number is children who are currently unable to continue going to school.
“We have seen in just the past few days thousands of people have to flee their homes again,” Ms. Richardson said, expressing deep concern about the killings, executions and seizures of territory. The gangs’ escalating territory is now consolidating their control in this region.” capital.
Chaos engulfed Port-Au-Prince
In a statement issued later on Wednesday, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk also expressed deep concern about rising violence in the capital Port-au-Prince, where a coalition of Gangs are fighting for complete control of the city.
Just last week, at least 150 people were killed, 92 injured and about 20,000 people were forced to leave their homes.
“Port-au-Prince’s estimated four million people are effectively being held hostage because gangs now control all the main roads in and out of the capital,” Mr. Türk said.
The humanitarian response is under strain
Despite enormous challenges, humanitarian operations continue and the United Nations is committed to remaining and supporting the people of Haiti.
The United Nations has provided daily meals, clean water and medical care to displaced people. “Incredibly intense support in very, very difficult operations,” Mrs. Richardson said.
Following disruption caused by airport closures, United Nations humanitarian helicopters resumed flights this week, allowing the delivery of essential supplies and the relocation of personnel in Haiti.
“[We are] Of course try to deploying many of our international staff to departments so that we can continue the development work we are doing across the country”, Ms. Richardson explained.
Ulrika Richardson, United Nations Humanitarian Coordinator in Haiti. (document)
Multinational security support is needed
On Tuesday, the Secretary-General reiterated his call for Member States to increase support for the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS) supporting the Haitian police force and led by officers from Kenya .
“Gang violence must not overwhelm the institutions of the State. Mr. Türk also expressed that concrete steps must be taken to strengthen the Haitian police force and support the Multinational Security Assistance mission in Haiti to protect the population and restore the effective rule of law.” .
Progress against gangs is possible
Ms. Richardson highlighted a recent incident where gangs tried to take control of Petionville but were repelled by police and residents.
“That also shows both intention and ability [police]to actually gain territory throughout the capitalShe said, praising the bravery of local law enforcement while acknowledging the significant challenges they face.
“We call on Member States to give the necessary support to the Multinational Security Assistance mission so that it can support national police and enable us to carry out its humanitarian assistance”.
