On 15 May 2023, United Nations (U.N.) Secretary General António Guterres asked the international community for intervention, warning that Haiti’s tragic situation is endangering the security of the Caribbean and beyond.

Guterres urged the international community to comprehend that effective solidarity with Haiti was not solely a matter of generosity. He emphasized that it was essentially a matter of enlightened self-interest, as the present situation in Haiti reflected a threat to the security of the entire region.

With beautiful beaches, underground caves, coral reefs, and pristine mountains, Haiti used to be one of the top tourist destinations in the 1970s among the Caribbean islands. The story of its transition from a prime travel destination to a fractured tapestry of despair is the result of a poly-crisis.

Decline of Haiti

Political instability and socio-economic crisis in the country have been shaped by many factors, including gang-related violence, shortages of fuel, acute hunger, outbreaks of diseases, earthquakes, civil unrest, and inflation. Haiti is currently the least peaceful and poorest country in the Caribbean.

The situation in the country worsened after the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse on 7 July 2021. He was killed in his private residence in Port-au-Prince by a group of foreign mercenaries.

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The Gangland

As per media reports, from January to April 2023, more than 1400 people have been killed and about 400 people have been kidnapped in the country. The U.N. estimates that armed gangs now control up to 80% of Port-au-Prince.

These gangs are primarily linked to G-Pep and G9, two groups engaged in a power struggle over the nation’s capital. In an effort to gain control, they have invaded neighbourhoods and killed individuals, leaving the capital city of Haiti and surrounding areas in hostility.

Recently, U.N. experts expressed grave concern over increasing violence in Haiti, including sexual violence and exploitation perpetrated by gangs against women and children.

In response to rising gang-related violence, civilians have established self-defence organizations under the ambit of a movement called “Bwa Kale”. Its emergence, which metaphorically signifies swift justice, has given rise to mob killings or lynching of any suspected gang member.

Robberies are frequent. Armed thieves on motorcycles often attack their victims in daylight. Also, there have been incidents of kidnapping for ransom involving foreign nationals, aid workers, and children.

Currently, the country faces a dangerous security situation. Many countries advise their citizens to avoid all travel to Haiti due to this reason. If you do, we reccommend to download Sitata app for an extra layer of assistance and protection.

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