The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Haiti has forcibly displaced an estimated 300,000 people, with women and young girls being the most vulnerable groups. These women not only struggle with the loss of their homes but also face the violent threats posed by criminal gang members. As tensions escalate in the country’s capital, access to health services, food and clean water has become increasingly scarce. International aid representatives are urging the Haitian government to act against the violence and to prioritize women’s voices and experiences in their political agenda.

Women at the Forefront of the Crisis in Haiti

Following the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in July 2021, Haiti fell into a state of political instability. The country’s capital, Port-au-Prince, became a center for gang violence. Since then, violence has victimized a total of 5,400 individuals and authorities have reported an additional 3,000 murder cases. Women, among the most vulnerable residents, are experiencing an unprecedented increase in gender-based violence. Many women face risks of sexual exploitation and sexual slavery.

In a study conducted in 2023 by the women’s organization, MARIJAN, 63% of the 299 women and girls from marginalized neighborhoods in Port-au-Prince responded that they were forced to relocate due to the ongoing violence. Additionally, one in five of these women disclosed that they had been victims of rape and 17% reported experiencing some form of physical violence. Natalie Eleanor Virginia, General Coordinator for MARIJAN, IRC partner organizer in Port-au-Prince, observes: “Women and girls are faced with an inhuman social reality. In marginalized neighborhoods, they are exposed to physical and psychological violence; beatings, intimidation, gang rape and murder are some of the methods gangs use to establish their domination and force women and girls into total submission”. 

Virginia clarifies that those who have managed to escape their neighborhoods and have sought refuge in one of the many camps around Port-au-Prince are not exempt from the dangers. On the contrary, physical and verbal violence and sexual exploitation remain prevalent in the camps. Instances of female kidnappings have also been on the rise. In 2023, nearly 1,000 women were reported missing– which is almost equal to the number of victims in 2022 and practically three times more than in 2021. The number of women at risk of being kidnapped will only continue to rise as many roads they travel are under the control of various gangs.

Gang Violence and Medical Access in Haiti

Over the last three years, the increasing number of gang-related attacks on hospitals in Port-au-Prince has severely limited people’s access to health care services. Less than half of the capital’s health facilities are still operational and they risk running out of supplies. In March of this year, the United Nations (U.N.) warned that about 3,000 pregnant residents of Port-au-Prince might soon lose access to essential health services. Among these women, an estimated 450 could face life-threatening complications.

The U.N. also noted that an additional 521 victims of sexual violence would be unable to access medical services. Even before the crisis, Haiti struggled to provide adequate health services for its female residents. Each year, more than 1,500 Haitian women die from childbirth or pregnancy-related complications. Additionally, only 3% of rape victims receive the necessary treatment within 72 hours of the incident.

Lending a Voice and Hand to the Silenced

In early May 2024, the U.N. held a press conference to highlight recent developments in Haiti concerning its female residents. The panel of experts expressed concerns about the insufficient aid provided to Haitian women. Additionally, it criticized the Haitian government for undermining state institutions designed to serve the most vulnerable populations. The experts also revealed that the government’s failure to effectively address corruption has made it complicit in gang violence and activities. A panelist emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “No one should be forced to choose between their safety and their ability to provide for themselves and their families, attend school, access health care and basic services, including sexual and reproductive care.”

The UNFPA has also spoken out for the cause, demanding additional funding. Since the crisis began, the organization has supported three hospitals in Port-au-Prince that provide maternal health services. Additionally, the UNFPA has supplied 13 health centers in the country’s capital and neighboring regions with necessary items, including rape kits.

The U.N. Women has contributed its share of aid by partnering with Rapha International. Together, they have provided emergency aid to female survivors of sexual violence, including counseling, medical assistance, economic support and refuge. The two organizations have also developed an online platform that allows victims of sexual violence to seek medical and psychosocial assistance anonymously. Since its launch, more than 2,000 women have used the system. Additionally, it has enabled approximately 230 women to access hygiene kits or food supplies.

Taking Matters into Her Own Hands

Despite the grim political state in Haiti, the women continue to demonstrate strength and resilience. Many have united and now identify themselves as “peace mediators.” This newfound hope stems from the creation of the project “Fanm Djamn Pou Lape.” The project focuses on empowering women and encourages their participation in peacebuilding efforts.

Since its inception in 2022, 97 women from various metropolitan areas around Port-au-Prince have committed to resolving conflicts within their communities. The project has successfully developed safe havens and brought together victims of gang-related violence. It aims to build and strengthen communities by focusing on collective memories. Matienge, a young woman and member of the project, explains, “By encouraging collective remembrance of past experiences, we have fostered a shared understanding of events, promoting reconciliation and building both individual and community strength.”

Looking Ahead

The humanitarian crisis in Haiti continues to severely impact women and girls. It exacerbates their vulnerability to violence and limits access to essential services. The U.N. and various organizations are calling for urgent action and increased aid to support these affected populations. Initiatives like “Fanm Djamn Pou Lape” demonstrate the resilience and determination of Haitian women. They play a crucial role in peacebuilding and community strengthening amid ongoing challenges.

– Yasmine Nowroozi

Yasmine is based in Laval, Quebec, Canada and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr