Gang Violence in Haiti Reaches Critical Levels Amid Humanitarian Crisis

Haiti is facing an unprecedented surge in gang violence, with armed groups now controlling approximately 85% of the capital, Port-au-Prince. This escalation has led to a severe humanitarian crisis, marked by mass displacement, acute food insecurity, and a significant loss of life.

In recent weeks, the violence has intensified. On April 20, three Haitian soldiers were killed in an ambush by gangs in Kenscoff, a town near Port-au-Prince. Shortly after, on April 23, coordinated gang attacks in the capital resulted in the deaths of at least four soldiers and four civilians. These incidents occurred in the Kenscoff and Pacot communities, as well as in Canapé-Vert, one of the last gang-free neighborhoods. Shocking videos circulated online showing mutilated victims, underscoring the brutality of these attacks.

The humanitarian impact of the escalating violence is profound. Over one million people have been displaced, many forced to flee multiple times as gangs expand their territories. The United Nations' International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported that displacement in Port-au-Prince rose by 87% between 2023 and 2024. Additionally, approximately 5.7 million Haitians are facing acute food insecurity, a situation exacerbated by disrupted food distribution channels and economic collapse. Inflation has exceeded 30%, further straining the population's ability to access basic necessities.

The international community has taken steps to address the crisis. The United Nations Security Council condemned the increasing gang violence and extended the U.N. political mission in Haiti until July 2025, emphasizing support for a Haitian-led political process towards free and fair elections. A U.N.-backed multinational security mission, led by Kenyan police, was deployed to assist Haitian authorities. However, the mission remains critically understaffed and underfunded, operating at only 40% of its planned strength. María Isabel Salvador, the U.N.'s top official in Haiti, warned the Security Council that the country is on the brink of descending into "total chaos" without enhanced international support.

Within Haiti, responses have included government condemnation of the violence and reaffirmation of its commitment to combat insecurity. Thousands of Haitians have taken to the streets to protest against the surging gang violence and perceived government inaction. Demonstrators have criticized the underperforming transitional government and the weak, underfunded U.N.-backed security mission. The protests followed a mass jailbreak in Mirebalais, where gangs seized control and released over 500 prisoners, further destabilizing the region.

Key figures in the current crisis include Jimmy "Barbecue" Chérizier, a former Haitian police officer and leader of the "Revolutionary Forces of the G9 Family and Allies," a federation of 12 gangs controlling significant portions of Port-au-Prince. Another prominent group is Viv Ansanm, a coalition of armed groups that have united to expand their control over the capital and surrounding areas.

Haiti's history of political instability and violence has contributed to the current crisis. The surge in gang activity intensified following the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021, leading to a power vacuum and increased gang influence. The United Nations reported that in 2024 alone, over 5,600 people were killed due to gang violence, marking a significant increase from previous years.

The implications of the ongoing crisis are dire. Without increased international support, Haiti risks descending into total chaos, with severe consequences for regional stability and international security. The humanitarian crisis, marked by mass displacement and acute food insecurity, requires urgent attention and action from the global community to prevent further deterioration.