As violence by armed groups continues in Haiti, the number of internally displaced children has increased by 60% since March 2024, or an average of one minor displaced every minute, UNICEF said

According to the latest estimates, nearly 600,000 people, half of whom are children or adolescents, are now internally displaced in Haiti and in need of urgent humanitarian assistance.

"Children in Haiti continue to face a multitude of dangers, including horrific violence and critical levels of displacement," said Catherine Russell, UNICEF Executive Director. "Displaced children and adolescents in Haiti are at increased risk of violence, including sexual assault, exploitation and abuse, and are more likely to be separated from their families. Their access to services such as safe spaces, health care, clean water and sanitation is also frequently interrupted."

The poor hygiene conditions in camps and makeshift settlements are likely to further aggravate outbreaks of waterborne diseases in a context where more than 84,000 suspected cases of cholera have already been reported.

At the same time, the catastrophic economic conditions contribute to the proliferation of armed groups. In the absence of other means of survival or protection, more and more children are being forced to join these groups, which constitutes a clear violation of their rights and international law.

"The needs continue to grow in Haiti, as do the dangers weighing on children. Everyone has a role to play in ending this situation and allowing children to return to school, to be safe and to have access to basic services. Children must not pay with their lives and their futures for a crisis created by adults," said Catherine Russell, UNICEF Executive Director.

HL/ HaitiLibre