Haiti is facing a worsening crisis as gangs escalate attacks on areas they do not yet control, according to the head of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti. Maria Isabel Salvador reported to the U.N. Security Council about the increasing violence from armed gangs in the country, which has prompted a deployment of an international security force to help restore order. However, only a fraction of the pledged troops have arrived, and funding for the mission has been lacking.
The alliance of armed gangs known as Viv Ansanm has expanded its reach across the capital and surrounding regions, causing terror and fear among residents. The national police force is struggling to combat the violence, and tensions between the dual executive in the country are further eroding public trust in the government.
Over 4,200 people have been displaced due to recent attacks, with many seeking shelter in makeshift camps. The conflict has forced 700,000 people from their homes and has severely impacted the country’s food supplies, leaving millions hungry and thousands facing famine conditions.
Efforts are being made to deploy more police and soldiers to combat zones, but the situation remains dire. The international mission is crucially under-resourced, posing challenges to its effectiveness in supporting the national police force.
© Thomson Reuters 2024.