A Haitian mother consoles her crying daughter.
Haiti, a nation with a history of political and humanitarian instability, is again experiencing a crisis. Many Haitians--especially children-- are displaced, experiencing violence and lack access to essential resources. As the situation worsens, it is imperative to learn more about the crisis so we can help those in need.
In 2010, Haiti was struck by one of the most devastating earthquakes in recent history. Claiming the lives of 220,000 people and leaving 1.5 million homeless, the nation faced a massive and chaotic rebuilding process. After the government grew incapable of this task, other groups vied for control. Some resorted to armed tactics and stole government funds. In local communities, many gangs were formed, claiming to offer aid. However, they instead were responsible for violence and murder.
Haiti's tumultuous political situation worsened on March 12th, 2024, when Prime Minister Ariel Henry developed plans for resignation. He agreed to resign once a transitional government is established. However, the concept of a "transitional government" is extremely complex and controversial. This new government would likely be run by foreign powers, angering many Haitians. In the wake of this development, more than 15,000 have been displaced from the capital of Port-au-Prince. Gangs have further intensified the crisis by blocking public access to the largest port in the nation, leading to widespread famine and suffering.
Haiti has also had a long and complex history with foreign intervention. Although nations such as the United States have the noble goal of helping Haitians in need, military presence leaves many Haitians angry. In addition, the U.S. has intervened in its government and supported unpopular leaders such as Henry. Before the crisis, Henry traveled to Kenya to secure a peacekeeping deal with the United Nations. Kenya agreed to send over 1,000 troops to Haiti, but later the plan was halted because its courts deemed it unconstitutional. Many Haitians also opposed the implementation of Kenyan troops, who are known for human rights abuses. Haitians have a negative opinion of the United Nations as well because a cholera outbreak in the country was traced back to a U.N. facility leakage. Since then, a combination of opposition to foreign involvement and other nations being hesitant to help has left Haiti fending for itself.
Children in the slums of Port-au-Prince.
Amidst the chaos, children in Haiti are among the most vulnerable. Over 3 million children are in dire need of humanitarian aid. In addition, education has been disrupted with over 1,000 schools being forced to close. Children are malnourished and have limited access to healthcare. Some are even forced to join gangs, robbed of their innocence and basic rights.
During perhaps the most tumultuous period since the 2010 earthquake, it is important to help those suffering. Numerous organizations are actively engaged in providing aid and relief to the people of Haiti. Save the Children, provides families with cash so they can buy food and other essential items. They treat children for malnutrition and provide nutrition counseling for caregivers. Similarly, the International Rescue Committee operates in some of the poorest neighborhoods of Port-au-Prince. It delivers programming focused on health, women's and girls' protection, water, sanitation, and hygiene, all of which are extremely difficult to access.
Below are the links to donate to Save the Children and the International Rescue Committee.
Works Cited
Omer, Sevil. “Haiti crisis: Facts, FAQs, and how to help.” World Vision, 21 March 2024, https://www.worldvision.org/disaster-relief-news-stories/haiti-crisis-faqs. Accessed 2 April 2024.
Smith, Patrick, and Char Adams. “The Haiti crisis, explained: Violence, hunger and unstable political leadership.” NBC News, 15 March 2024, https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/haiti-crisis-what-know-president-violence-government-rcna143000. Accessed 2 April 2024.
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