UNICEF reports a 1,000 per cent rise in sexual violence against children in Haiti over the past year, with armed groups exerting control over 85 per cent of Port-au-Prince. Child recruitment into these groups surged by 70 per cent in 2024, with up to half of their members being children, some as young as eight years old.
Approximately 1.2 million children live under the threat of armed violence, and over 500,000 have been displaced. Essential services remain severely limited, with many health facilities lacking necessary equipment and medication. Education has also been disrupted for more than 300,000 children due to school closures and displacement.
UNICEF continues to respond by deploying health professionals, creating mobile safe spaces, and supporting families. However, its 2024 emergency appeal for $221.4 million was only 28 per cent funded, underscoring the urgent need for resources to protect vulnerable children in Haiti.