Surge in Sexual Violence Reports in Haiti

In Haiti, while fighting between criminal groups has decreased in 2024, attacks on civilians, particularly sexual violence, have sharply increased. Human Rights Watch reports that nearly 4,000 girls and women have reported sexual violence, including gang rape, from January to October, with a staggering 1,000% rise in cases involving children compared to the previous year. Armed gangs are using sexual violence as a weapon of terror, with 94% of women at risk of gender-based violence, according to the UN. Many survivors face dire consequences, including unwanted pregnancies and lack of access to medical care, while the health system is on the brink of collapse. The international community has been urged to increase support for security responses and essential services, but funding remains critically low. The situation highlights a severe breakdown of law and order, with victims often suffering in silence due to fear and stigma.