December 23, 2024
Haiti’s capital is grappling with an alarming humanitarian crisis, with nearly 11,000 people displaced due to intensified armed violence in the neighborhoods of Poste Marchand, Fort National, and Christ-Roi Moise. According to an updated report from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) dated December 17, 2024, a total of 10,867 individuals have fled their homes to seek refuge in 18 shelter sites, four of which were newly established. This reflects the severity of the attacks, which have forced hundreds of families to abandon their belongings and livelihoods.
The existing shelter sites, overwhelmed by the influx of displaced individuals, are struggling to meet basic needs, while three sites were evacuated due to fears of further violence. The attacks, which occurred mainly on December 7 and 8, initially displaced 4,726 people, a figure that more than doubled within days. The fragility of local infrastructure and ongoing insecurity exacerbate an already dire situation for these vulnerable communities.
Humanitarian organizations are sounding the alarm about the urgent need for immediate aid, particularly in housing, food, and healthcare access. However, the surge in violence is hindering relief teams from accessing certain areas. These mass displacements highlight an escalation of gang conflicts in the affected neighborhoods, endangering the safety of thousands of civilians.