“Becoming a child in Haiti today is harsher and more dangerous than ever in living memory. The threats and difficulties that children face are simply unimaginable. They desperately need protection and support,” he said. UNICEF Haitian Representative Bruno Maes.
Displacement and violence
Children find themselves in the crossfire, or directly targeted, as armed groups terrorize people in their battle for territory and control, mainly in the capital Port-au, UNICEF said. Prince, and increasingly in the neighboring Artibonite region, UNICEF said.
The agency notes that children are killed or injured on their way to school while women and girls face serious sexual violence. Kidnappings for ransom have skyrocketed, as have attacks on schools. Tens of thousands of people were evacuated because of the violence.
Chronic malnutrition
At the same time, hunger and life-threatening malnutrition are at record levels across the country, UNICEF said, concentrated in the capital’s poorest and most insecure neighborhoods, where some families Families are essentially stranded and with essential services cut off.
Number of sick children life-threatening malnutrition increased by 30% since last year, and nearly a quarter are chronically malnourished.
Vulnerability to armed groups
Violence, poverty and despair are driving children to armed groups, UNICEF continues.
Many children and young people in Port-au-Prince say they are being coerced join armed groups to protect or because it means food and income for the family. Some say they offer a sense of identity and belonging.
In addition to violence, famine, and diseases like cholera, Haiti faces the constant threat of violent storms and earthquakes. In early June, heavy rains that coincided with the start of hurricane season caused devastating and deadly flooding. This was followed by a deadly earthquake just days later in Grand Anse.
Urgent need for funding
Nearly three million children are in need in Haiti this year, the highest number on record. But funding falls far short of humanitarian needs. UNICEF’s $246 million grant request for Haiti this year is less than 15 percent funding.
UNICEF is scaling up its operations and expanding its presence in this area, despite limited funding. Together with partners, the agency says it is providing life-saving support.
“Despite the enormous challenges, humanitarian assistance has helped prevent catastrophic hunger and malnutrition. But much more is needed. The international community cannot turn its back on Haitian children most needed hour” said Mr Maes.
