Haiti: Escalating armed violence in Port-au-Prince cuts people off from lifesaving services

Confrontations between the coalition of armed groups ‘Viv Ansamn’ and government forces have intensified in recent months, triggering new waves of displacement across Haiti’s capital. Densely populated and constrained by dozens of unofficial “checkpoints”, many areas of the city have become deadly traps from which escape is nearly impossible, especially during active fighting. 

In the most affected neighbourhoods, daily life has become increasingly dangerous. Routine activities – going to the market, to work or to school - can put people at risk of stray bullets, forced recruitment, sexual violence or disappearance.  

“Every movement can become a risk: seeking medical care, food, water, or even sending your children to school. All these daily routines have turned into a struggle” said Marisela Silva Chau, ICRC Head of Delegation in Haiti. 

Many areas in Port-au-Prince, especially in Cité Soleil, have not had electricity or proper sanitation for years. Essential infrastructure damaged or destroyed during armed confrontations is difficult to rebuild due to lack of access and the deteriorating security situation. Armed violence also prevents institutions from providing basic services and restricts all kinds of movement, including the transfer of patients to the few remaining health facilities operating in the capital. 

When hospitals and water systems are damaged or destroyed, entire communities bear the consequences. Damage to essential infrastructure not only worsens the suffering of the population but also create major challenges for humanitarian organizations trying to provide help.

The increasing use of armed drones poses additional risks. In the narrow, tightly packed streets of Port-au-Prince, their use increases the likelihood of direct harm to the population. The constant sound and sight of drones fuels fear, stress, and anxiety, further restricting people’s movements. Coupled with repeated and unpredictable outbreaks of armed confrontations between armed groups and security forces, residents are left with no safe place to seek shelter. 

For the three million inhabitants of Port-au-Prince, the struggle to survive is a daily reality they cannot escape from. “Armed violence doesn´t only kill. It methodically dismantles every mechanism for survival that local communities have. Life just collapses”, said Marisela Silva Chau.

Faced with these challenges, humanitarian aid alone, or even efforts to improve security in Port-au-Prince, won’t be enough to meaningfully change the extremely difficult living conditions of the population. 

“All actors, including arms bearers, must ensure to not exacerbate the suffering of the population, many of whom have already been displaced and cut off from hospitals, markets and schools”, said Marisela Silva Chau. 

ICRC response