The situation in Haiti is dire for children, with five being killed or injured every week in the first half of 2024 due to warring gangs. According to Save the Children, at least 131 children have been affected so far this year, up 47% from the previous six months. Most children were caught in the crossfire of armed conflicts in their neighborhoods, with some being actively targeted and others lynched for minor offenses.
The armed gangs control around 80% of the capital, Port-au-Prince, leading to widespread violence and chaos. The new acting leader, Garry Conille, has been trying to restore order with the help of international security forces, but concerns have been raised about their heavy-handed tactics and lack of child protection measures.
Local civil society groups are worried that children are being recruited by the gangs due to poverty and lack of opportunities. Save the Children has warned that more children are at risk of harm with the presence of international security forces in Haiti.
Despite offers from other countries to send reinforcements, the security mission lacks the necessary funding. The situation remains precarious for children in Haiti, and urgent action is needed to protect them from ongoing violence and recruitment by armed groups. Save the Children is calling for child protection measures to be prioritized in the mission’s efforts to restore peace and stability in the country.
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