Last weeks in Haiti have again been marked by socio-political tensions that have resulted in the paralysis of economic and social life in Port-au-Prince as well as in several cities of the country (Les Cayes, Gonaïves et Cap-Haitien...)

This tense situation affects a large part of the population, which relies heavily on trade with the big cities both for their supplies and for access to basic services.

Since 2018 the economic situation in Haiti has steadily deteriorated with an increase in the cost of living related inter alia to the depreciation of 23% of the national currency in 6 months.

This situation, combined with socio-political tensions and low agricultural productivity, led to an increase in the food basket price of 11% in February 2019 on a monthly basis and 26% on an annual basis.

Repeated social movements (July 2018, November 2018, February 2019 and June 2019) have had repercussions on humanitarian activities and limited people's access to assistance. Thus, during the last crisis in February 2019, humanitarian actors have experienced supply difficulties including fuel, gas and water. These shortages severely hampered the functioning of health facilities and limited or prevented people from obtaining food and water.

In 2019, more than one out of four Haitians are in need of urgent humanitarian aid. The 2019 Humanitarian Response Plan for Haiti requires $216 million to meet the needs of 1.3 million Haitians among the most vulnerable.

See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-28001-haiti-social-protests-the-most-vulnerable-pay-the-high-price.html

HL/ HaitiLibre