UN Urges Urgent Action to Address Insecurity and Gang Violence in Haiti

The UN Human Rights Office reports that at least 3,661 people have been killed in 2024 alone, with growing concerns over widespread human rights abuses.

A new UN report emphasizes the urgent need for action to address escalating insecurity in Haiti, where gang violence has killed or displaced thousands. The UN Human Rights Office reports that at least 3,661 people have been killed in 2024 alone, with growing concerns over widespread human rights abuses.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk called for reinforced efforts from Haitian authorities and the international community, urging that “no more lives should be lost to this senseless criminality.” Türk praised positive developments such as the formation of a Transitional Presidential Council and the deployment of the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS), though he stressed the need for more personnel and resources to counter gang violence.

The report highlights severe abuses in Port-au-Prince and surrounding areas, noting an increase in sexual violence by gangs and the forced recruitment of children. Gang activities in Haiti’s agricultural heartland have also worsened food insecurity, threatening over 1.6 million people.

Türk called for stronger police and judicial institutions to combat endemic corruption, protect vulnerable groups, and hold violators accountable. He also urged international efforts to fully implement targeted sanctions, including an arms embargo, to curb gang violence.