During a press conference on Tuesday, United Nations Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq tick deepening insecurity, noted that essential personnel from various United Nations agencies and the United Nations Mission in Haiti (BINUH) are remaining in Port-au-Prince to continue their important operations.
While the safety of personnel is the top priority, the United Nations remains fully engaged in supporting Haiti-led efforts during the political transition and providing vital humanitarian aid.
Programs continue to roll out beyond the capital, reaching communities in need across the country.
Disproportionate impact on women and girls
The UN humanitarian response comes at a time when the crisis is having a particularly severe impact on women and girls.
Tick International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women on Monday, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) highlights the disproportionate toll the crisis is taking on women and girls in Haiti.
From January to October 2024, 5,400 incidents of gender-based violence were reported, although the actual number is expected to be much higher.
These worrying statistics are exacerbated by severe underfunding of services supporting survivors of gender-based violence and sexual and reproductive health.
United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) guaranteed only 19 percent funding is needed this year, leaving serious gaps in support for vulnerable populations.
An increase in child recruitment
The situation of children is equally alarming.
UNICEF reported a sharp increase in the recruitment of minors by armed gangs, with the number recruiting children increased 70% in the past year.
Some children as young as eight years old were forcibly recruited and are now represented by minors between 30 and 50% of all gang members.
This worrying trend is exacerbated by school closures and widespread displacement, leaving children increasingly vulnerable and unprotected.
UN’s continued commitment
Despite the challenges posed by the security situation, the United Nations remains dedicated to supporting the people and authorities of Haiti, focusing on providing essential services and support, especially to women and children affected by ongoing violence.
Mr. Haq further emphasized: “We continue to support the people and authorities of Haiti, with vital humanitarian assistance and political support to support Haitian-led efforts to successfully implement the transition process. political change”.
