A concerning humanitarian context in 2024
In 2024, Haiti faced an unprecedented humanitarian crisis, characterized by escalating gang violence, massive population displacement, and climate disasters. Over one million people were displaced, mainly women and children, seeking refuge in overcrowded displacement sites. These conditions exacerbate the vulnerabilities of women and girls, making them even more susceptible to gender-based violence (GBV) and risks to their sexual and reproductive health.
UNFPA's response to the challenges
Despite a challenging operational environment, UNFPA has intensified its efforts to protect women and girls by implementing solutions tailored to urgent needs:
- Mobile clinics: 107 mobile clinics were deployed, providing vital services to over 41,000 people in Port-au-Prince's metropolitan areas.
- Essential kits: 24 health facilities were supplied with reproductive health kits and clinical management kits for rape survivors.
- Safe spaces: More than 3,900 women and girls participated in psychosocial support activities in dedicated safe spaces.
- Financial assistance: 2,907 vulnerable women and girls received cash assistance to meet their basic needs.
- Community awareness: Nearly 26,500 individuals were educated about available services for preventing and responding to GBV.
Persistent challenges
The increase in gang violence, humanitarian access restrictions, and underfunding of interventions (only 19% of required funds in 2024) have limited the scope of UNFPA's activities. Despite these obstacles, significant results have been achieved.
Priorities for 2025
In 2025, UNFPA aims to enhance access to essential services for women and girls in Haiti. With a funding appeal of USD 28.9 million, the organization will focus on:
- Training health professionals to optimize sexual and reproductive health services.
- Expanding safe spaces for GBV survivors.
- Strengthening national coordination for GBV prevention and response.
- Integrating GBV risk reduction strategies across all humanitarian sectors.
Call to action
The humanitarian needs of women and girls in Haiti are pressing and complex. UNFPA urges the international community to mobilize and fund these initiatives to ensure the dignity and safety of the most vulnerable.
Moise Alex Docteur
Communication Consultant
