The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) warns of the persistence of gender-based violence at alarming levels in Haiti.

Between January and August 2025, humanitarian partners reported more than 6,450 cases of gender-based violence, including nearly 3,200 rapes (more than one rape every two hours). Nearly 15% of victims were minors.

According to partners, armed groups are responsible for 75% of cases. Displaced persons account for 70% of victims.

Only 25% of rape victims were able to access medical care within the critical 72-hour timeframe, while another 25% were not treated for more than a month. These delays are due to insecurity, stigma, weak referral systems, and the absence of health services in many communities.

The vast majority of rapes were concentrated in the West Department, with the capital, Port-au-Prince, accounting for more than 30% of reported cases.

It should be noted that the UN and its partners provide vital services, including medical and psychosocial support, legal assistance, and temporary shelter. However, OCHA reports that access to services remains uneven, with most concentrated in Port-au-Prince and surrounding municipalities.

Furthermore, OCHA warns of chronic underfunding, which is exacerbating the crisis and leaving the vast majority of victims without care. Less than 20% of the US$19 million requested this year for the prevention and response to gender-based violence in Haiti has been received to date. Urgent support is needed to expand services beyond the capital and ensure that women and girls across the country have access to protection and care.

HL/ HaitiLibre