Haiti

Jan 2nd 2026.

The humanitarian crisis in Haiti has reached alarming levels, making it the worst in the Western Hemisphere.

With increasing violence and displacement affecting millions, understanding the situation is crucial for international awareness and support. In this video, we explore the key factors contributing to the crisis, the most affected populations, and how the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is responding to urgent needs.

Haiti is currently facing an acute humanitarian crisis, with approximately 1.4 million people internally displaced due to escalating armed violence. As Marisela Silva Chau, Head of the ICRC Delegation for Haiti, explains, the country is suffering from high-intensity armed confrontations that have led to a dire situation.

Only 30% of health facilities are operational, and nearly half of the population, around 6 million people, are in urgent need of humanitarian aid.

The roots of the current crisis can be traced back to 2020, when Haiti experienced two major periods of armed violence. The first period began with confrontations among armed groups, particularly in the metropolitan area of Port-au-Prince. The second phase started in February 2024, marked by intense confrontations between armed groups and governmental forces, leading to a further deterioration of security and humanitarian conditions.

Reports indicate that between 85% to 90% of Port-au-Prince is currently under the control of armed groups. Additionally, other areas are also grappling with armed violence.

The ongoing instability has created a pressing need for humanitarian assistance across these regions.

The crisis disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including children, women, and internally displaced persons. Children are particularly at risk, with some being associated with armed groups. Women face alarming rates of sexual violence, while displaced families are being forced to move multiple times to escape violence, exacerbating their trauma and instability.

Haiti's humanitarian needs are multifaceted, including a severe food crisis, limited access to healthcare, and shortages of safe water and education. With only 30% of health structures functioning, the pressure on healthcare services is immense. Moreover, many schools are occupied by displaced individuals, further hindering educational opportunities for children. The humanitarian situation is worsening, with a significant rise in internally displaced persons from 300,000 in January 2024 to 1.3 million by January 2025. Armed confrontations between government forces and armed groups have intensified.

Marisela urges the international community not to forget Haiti amidst competing humanitarian crises worldwide. She emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the needs of the Haitian population in decision-making processes and calls for measures that alleviate the suffering of those affected.

The message is clear: Haiti requires immediate attention and support to help restore stability and essential services. Haiti stands at a critical juncture, facing an unprecedented humanitarian crisis that demands global awareness and action.

Key Takeaways:

- Haiti is experiencing the worst humanitarian crisis in the Western Hemisphere, with 1.4 million internally displaced persons.

- High levels of armed violence have led to a breakdown of essential services, including healthcare and education.

- Vulnerable groups, especially children and women, are disproportionately affected by the crisis.

- The international community must not forget Haiti and prioritize the needs of its people in decision-making processes.