Haiti: 2 in 3 children need humanitarian assistance
Violence, poverty, malnutrition, worsening rights violations and a resurgence of cholera have left millions of children and civilians in need of humanitarian aid and protection
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In Haiti, people are facing some of the worst human rights violations and threats to their lives in the country’s recent history. Years of political turmoil, poverty, institutional and socioeconomic crises, disease outbreaks, disasters and extreme levels of armed violence have left over 3 million children in need of assistance. Many more children will need support if the humanitarian situation deteriorates.
The situation in Haiti at a glance
"Do not be discouraged, remain resilient by praying to God, understand that life does not stop there.
The future is reaching out to us."
Message of Taina to other survivors of gender-based violence
Children and women are particularly vulnerable
Extreme levels of armed violence ravage pockets of the capital, Port-au-Prince, and increasingly in the country’s traditional breadbasket, Artibonite Department. The looming threats of violence – including sexual and gender-based violence – as well as family separation and displacement, are all taking a heavy toll on children’s mental health and well-being. In 2023, more than 2,700 cases of sexual violence were reported. Seven in ten cases reported involved children.* The spread and intensification of violence by armed groups continues to restrict access to schooling for children and teachers. The violence has also led to the displacement of thousands of families, including many school-age children.
* Between January and November 2023.
How is UNICEF responding?
Despite the extremely insecure and volatile environment, UNICEF and partners are stepping up efforts to protect children and families and provide the lifesaving support they desperately need, including: supporting nutrition and health services, responding to the cholera outbreak, promoting safe learning environments, providing psychosocial support and assisting with disaster recovery and preparedness.
