Alarming Surge in Child Exploitation Amidst Gang Violence in Haiti

The UN has condemned an unprecedented rise in sexual violence against children in Haiti, with UNICEF reporting a staggering 1,000% increase since 2023 amid rampant gang violence and social upheaval.

The ongoing gang conflict in Haiti has triggered a perilous increase in sexual violence against children, according to a recent report from the UN's children's organization, UNICEF. The Caribbean nation, plagued by lawlessness and fierce gang warfare, is witnessing a frightening spike in cases, as officials indicate that sexual violence against minors has surged by a staggering 1,000% since the beginning of 2023. UNICEF spokesperson James Elder described the troubling circumstances, stating that “children’s bodies have become battlegrounds” during this lawless era.

Current estimates reveal that approximately 85% of Port-au-Prince, Haiti's capital, is controlled by criminal gangs, placing over a million children in constant fear of violence. Elder recounted a harrowing incident involving a 16-year-old girl who was kidnapped while shopping—held captive by armed assailants, who subjected her to physical abuse and repeated sexual assaults. This girl spent almost a month in captivity before her release, after which she found refuge in a UN shelter with many others who have endured similar trauma.

The grip of gang rule has resulted in severe disruptions of public safety, healthcare services, and the escalating food crisis. Last year alone, gang violence claimed over 5,600 lives in Haiti. Meanwhile, the transitional presidential council (TPC), established to restore democratic governance, appears to be mired in chaos and has made little advancement toward orchestrating overdue elections.

In addition to sexual violence, UNICEF reported a worrying trend of child enlistment into gangs, with some children as young as eight being forcibly recruited. Basic necessities for a safe childhood are nearly absent; schools are either non-functioning or severely compromised, leaving tens of thousands of children out of education.

In response to the crisis, UNICEF has implemented mobile safe zones aimed at sheltering children and mitigating the risk of sexual violence. However, the organization's funding appeal last year for $221.4 million resulted in only a quarter of the necessary support received. The recent halt on U.S. foreign aid threatens to exacerbate these challenges, potentially leaving Haiti's most vulnerable populations without critical resources or assistance.