Escalating Gang Violence in Haiti Displaces Thousands, Intensifies Humanitarian Crisis

In early June 2025, escalating gang violence in Haiti's Kenscoff area displaced approximately 14,000 residents, marking a significant intensification of the country's ongoing security crisis. This surge is part of a broader trend that has led to a record 1.3 million people being internally displaced nationwide—a 24% increase since December 2024.

The United Nations International Organization for Migration (IOM) reports that gangs now control about 85% of Port-au-Prince, the capital city, and have expanded into previously peaceful central regions, forcing over 230,000 people from their homes in northern areas of the capital. The IOM's Director General, Amy Pope, emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, "The isolation of Port-au-Prince is amplifying an already dire humanitarian situation. Our ability to deliver aid is stretched to its limits. Without immediate international support, the suffering will worsen exponentially."

The escalating violence has severely impacted humanitarian efforts. The UN World Food Program urgently requested $46 million to provide food assistance over the next six months to 2 million Haitians facing severe hunger. This crisis is attributed to the gang violence that has displaced over 1 million people and destabilized the country since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021.

In response to the crisis, Haiti has appealed for regional security support at an Organization of American States meeting. The country faces a growing crisis from heavily armed gangs controlling much of the capital and expanding into rural areas. Over one million people have been displaced amid the violence.

The escalating gang violence in Haiti has led to significant displacement and humanitarian concerns, affecting regional stability and international aid efforts. Children and women have been disproportionately impacted by the effects of the violence and instability in Haiti, with more than 310,000 women and girls, and 180,000 children among the displaced. More than half a million children are living in neighborhoods controlled by armed groups, at heightened risk of violence and child recruitment.

The Revolutionary Forces of the G9 Family and Allies, a federation of 12 gangs led by former Haitian police officer Jimmy "Barbecue" Chérizier, controls over 80% of Port-au-Prince. The G9, along with other affiliated gangs, has been involved in numerous violent incidents, including a jailbreak in March 2024 that led to more than 4,700 prisoners escaping.

Established in June 2024, the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS) is a UN-backed mission led by Kenya, aiming to assist the Haitian National Police in combating gang violence. However, the mission has faced challenges, including being under-resourced and lacking clear operational frameworks. As of late October 2024, the mission remained severely understaffed, with Kenya deploying only 400 troops, alongside 20 officers from Jamaica and Belize.

The escalating gang violence in Haiti has led to unprecedented displacement and a severe humanitarian crisis. International efforts, including the MSS, have faced significant challenges, and urgent support is needed to address the immediate needs of the displaced population and to restore stability in the region.