December 22, 2024
The commune of Petite Rivière de l’Artibonite has been struck by armed attacks that triggered a massive exodus on December 10, according to a report from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) published on December 12, 2024. The violence, which occurred in the first communal section of Bas Coursin, forced 10,606 individuals across 2,406 households to flee their homes in a desperate bid to escape the escalating insecurity in the region.
A significant majority of the displaced population, approximately 64%, sought refuge in the neighboring commune of Les Verrettes. Among them, 95% were hosted by local families, showcasing the solidarity within the community amidst this crisis. The remaining 5%, representing several hundred individuals, were forced to congregate in four improvised shelters set up to address the humanitarian emergency. This influx has strained local resources and underscored the urgent need for aid.
The mass displacements highlight the growing impact of armed violence on Haiti’s rural communities, already weakened by a multifaceted crisis. While efforts are underway to address the humanitarian needs, displaced residents are calling for tangible measures to restore security and enable a safe return to their villages.