The level of armed violence in Haiti has escalated to such an extreme extent that the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is now required to engage with approximately 300 gangs in order to provide necessary humanitarian aid to the country. With about 80% of the capital, Port-au-Prince, under gang control, the situation has hindered the functioning of health facilities and intimidated health staff, leading to a lack of essential services for the population.
ICRC Director-General Robert Mardini, who recently visited Haiti, expressed his concerns over the devastating combination of adverse factors that have negatively impacted communities living in impoverished shanty towns. Streets flooded with sewage-contaminated water and the constant threat of armed violence have created an environment of fear and instability, making everyday life a struggle for the Haitian people.
The rampant insecurity has forced many healthcare facilities to cease operations, leaving a significant portion of the population without access to vital medical services. During his visit, Mr. Mardini encountered a young doctor at a clinic who was performing miracles with very limited resources.
Due to the constant fighting between rival gangs for control over various parts of the capital, the local population is often confined to their neighborhoods, unable to cross the “fault lines” dividing areas controlled by different groups. Mr. Mardini shared the story of a man who had to transport his heavily pregnant wife to the hospital by pushing her in a wheelbarrow through flooded streets, then transferring her to a motorbike, and finally getting her into a car for the remainder of the journey.
To reach areas with no state control and where armed groups freely roam, the ICRC engages in ongoing dialogue with the gangs. This continuous engagement is crucial for the ICRC’s ability to aid Haitians effectively. Mr. Mardini emphasized that interrupting this dialogue for just a few days can hamper progress, as the loose chain of command within the gangs and infighting often lead to changes and disruptions.
Recognizing the growing needs in Haiti, the ICRC plans to increase its humanitarian efforts in 2024. They aim to enhance training for emergency health staff and the country’s ambulance service to improve access to emergency services for those most affected by the violence. Additionally, the ICRC intends to supply a larger number of hospitals with medical kits for treating wounded patients.
Mr. Mardini also appealed to the international community to help change Haiti’s current downward spiral. With five million people dependent on humanitarian aid, he stressed the ethical and moral responsibility of boosting aid to the country.
The escalating gang violence poses significant challenges to aid delivery in Haiti, hindering the provision of essential services and perpetuating a cycle of fear and instability for the population. The situation necessitates continued engagement with gangs for effective aid distribution, as well as increased support from the international community. Immediate action and ongoing efforts are required to mitigate the impact of gang violence and provide necessary humanitarian assistance to Haiti.