Amid a severe humanitarian crisis exacerbated by rampant gang violence and acute food insecurity. Nearly half of the Haitian population is currently facing significant food shortages, with estimates indicating that around 4.9 million people are acutely food insecure, marking a sharp increase from previous years.
The situation in Haiti has deteriorated significantly since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021, leading to a surge in gang-related violence. U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres warned that without additional international support, gangs could completely overrun the capital, Port-au-Prince, resulting in a total breakdown of government and public safety. This violence has displaced over one million people and severely disrupted food supply chains, making it increasingly difficult for humanitarian organizations to deliver aid effectively.
The U.N. appeal aims to provide emergency food assistance, protect agricultural livelihoods, and restore critical trade routes essential for food distribution. The ongoing conflict has led to skyrocketing food prices and limited access to essential goods, with inflation rates nearing 40% for food items. The humanitarian crisis is compounded by economic instability and climate impacts, which are expected to worsen food insecurity into mid-2025 if not addressed urgently.
In summary, the U.N.’s call for funding underscores the dire need for coordinated international efforts to stabilize Haiti and alleviate the suffering of millions facing hunger and displacement due to escalating violence.