العربية
Haiti is in freefall as gangs tighten their grip on the capital, violence spreads, and the country teeters on the edge of collapse, according to William O’Neill, the UN-designated human rights expert on Haiti.
After his fourth visit to assess conditions, O’Neill briefed journalists at UN Headquarters in New York, painting a dire picture of suffering and despair.
“I hate to sound like a broken record,” he admitted, “but the situation is more dire each time I go.”
Gangs Expand Control Amid Lawlessness
Despite the efforts of the Haitian National Police (PNH) and the Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission, gang rule is expanding beyond Port-au-Prince, threatening to engulf the entire country.
Gangs kill, rape, and terrorize communities with impunity. Homes are set on fire, and entire neighborhoods are forced to flee. Powerful actors may be complicit in enabling gang operations.
“These violent criminal groups infiltrate all spheres of society,” O’Neill warned, raising concerns over corruption at the highest levels.
Harrowing Testimonies: Haiti’s Children at the Center of Crisis
O’Neill shared firsthand testimonies from survivors, including children who have endured unimaginable horrors.
A 16-year-old girl, raped and orphaned by gang violence:
“Seven masked gunmen broke into my home in Kenscoff, raped and beat me and my stepmother. Then they killed my father in front of me.”
Despite her trauma, she still dreams of becoming a psychologist for young survivors. However, resources for victims remain severely inadequate.
A 12-year-old boy, forced into a gang, now in prison:
“I don’t want any more bandits in my country. Later, I’ll be a pilot.”
His words underscore the urgent need for reintegration programs to save children trapped in Haiti’s cycle of violence.
Over a Million Haitians Displaced with Nowhere to Go
Haiti’s crisis has displaced more than a million people, with thousands more fleeing in recent weeks.
IDP camps are overcrowded, with sexual violence and hunger rampant.
Community tensions are rising, as even students have attacked displaced families seeking shelter.
“The desperate are turning against the more desperate,” O’Neill said, describing a nation breaking under the weight of suffering.
A Call for Urgent Action: ‘Haiti’s Survival Is at Stake’
Political unity and solidarity must drive immediate action. Fighting corruption and impunity is critical to dismantling gangs. Responses to gang violence must respect human rights, including the right to life.
“There is not a day to lose. There is no alternative,” O’Neill declared.
“Haiti’s survival is at stake.”
What’s Next?
The UN, regional allies, and international organizations must step up efforts to: Provide security and humanitarian aid to displaced populations. Strengthen law enforcement and justice to combat criminal networks. Invest in rebuilding communities and supporting survivors.
Haiti stands at a breaking point, and the world cannot afford inaction.