The United Nations (UN) has confirmed that at least 3,661 people have died in Haiti since January due to rampant gang violence.
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, stated in a release from Geneva that further loss of life from this “senseless criminality” must be prevented.
In their statement, which was broadcast by the Swiss radio station “LFM” today, Friday, the UN emphasized that addressing the insecurity in Haiti must be a “top priority.”
They urged both Haitian authorities and the international community to intensify efforts to mitigate further suffering.
Background: Haiti has been grappling with increasing gang violence for years, with the situation worsening significantly after the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021.
The power vacuum left by his death has allowed gangs to consolidate control over large portions of the capital, Port-au-Prince, and other areas.
The violence has led to a humanitarian crisis, with thousands displaced from their homes and many more living in fear of kidnappings, murders, and extortion.
The international community, including the United Nations, has been involved in various initiatives to restore order and security, but progress has been slow amidst the complex socio-political landscape of the country.
In July, 40 Haitian migrants have perished after a fire broke out on the boat they were travelling on, while 41 others were rescued by Haitian Coast Guard personnel.
The boat, which was carrying over 80 passengers, had set sail from Fort Saint Michel in northern Haiti, bound for the British Turks and Caicos Islands.
The fire erupted while the vessel was at sea, leading to devastating losses. The survivors were promptly rescued by the Haitian Coast Guard, who responded to the distress signals and managed to save the lives of the remaining migrants.
