Haiti - Insecurity : Unprecedented sexual violence in camps in Haiti

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Haiti - Insecurity : Unprecedented sexual violence in camps in Haiti
05/08/2024 10:06:20

A recent UN Women report highlights that women in Haiti are experiencing unprecedented rates of sexual violence due to increased displacement and attacks by armed gangs. Nearly 300,000 displaced women and girls face precarious living conditions and an alarming lack of security.

The UN Women survey, conducted in the 6 largest IDP sites in Port-au-Prince, revealed that most camps lack lighting and security, exposing displaced women to constant threats from gangs, increasing their vulnerability to violence.

Furthermore, the report warns against the use of rape as a deliberate tactic to control access to humanitarian aid, mainly affecting women.

UN Women Director Sima Bahous urged the Haitian Government to adopt measures to prevent and respond to violence and increase women’s participation in camp management. Bahous stressed that "the level of insecurity and brutality that women face in Haiti is unacceptable and must stop immediately."

The report reveals :

90% of women surveyed have no source of income in the camps;
More than 10% have considered or turned to prostitution to meet their needs;
20% knew someone who has been a prostitute;
16% of respondents admitted to feeling harassed or traumatized by armed gangs;
70% indicated that the increase in violence affected them psychologically.
Only 10% have access to health services in displacement sites.

UN Women demands urgent action from the relevant authorities to protect and support women and girls in these camps.

HL/ HaitiLibre