Insecurity in Haiti: More than 1,100 people killed, injured, and kidnapped just in January, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights is sounding the alarm on the human rights situation in Haiti.

In January 2024 alone, over 1,100 individuals, the vast majority of whom were innocent and not involved in the conflicts, were killed, injured, or kidnapped.

According to a report from the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, this figure also includes nearly 300 gang members, more than triple the number from the previous year.

The UN organization also condemns the acts of violence against women and girls perpetrated by armed gangs that are spreading terror in various parts of the country.

“The areas controlled by gangs have become zones of terror, where residents are directly targeted. Gangs continue to resort to acts of sexual violence against women and girls, using these atrocities to spread fear and maintain their grip on the population,” reports the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.

The UN body also deplores the violence against the civilian population during anti-government protests that have erupted across the country. Between January and February, at least 16 people lost their lives and dozens more were injured in clashes with law enforcement.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights calls for urgent action to deploy the Multinational Support Mission for Security in Haiti (MSS) as soon as possible. “The situation demands a concerted and immediate response to prevent further deterioration,” warns the organization.

During the protests on February 7th, aimed at demanding the departure of the de facto Prime Minister Ariel Henry, more than a dozen people, including five agents of the Protected Areas Security Brigade (BSAP), were killed by the Haitian National Police. Several journalists in various departments of the country were also mistreated by PNH agents.

These protest movements reflect the widespread discontent among the population regarding the inability of Prime Minister Ariel Henry, who has been in office for over 30 months, to ensure even the basic security of the population.

Emmanuel Paul

Emmanuel Paul is an experienced journalist and accomplished storyteller with a longstanding commitment to truth, community, and impact. He is the founder of Caribbean Television Network (CTN), a mission-driven media platform dedicated to delivering high-quality, in-depth journalism focused on Haitian and Caribbean immigrant communities in the United States and around the world. Before relocating to the United States, Emmanuel built a distinguished career in Haiti, where he worked for several prominent media outlets and became known for his insightful reporting and unwavering dedication to public service journalism. Emmanuel holds a diverse academic background with studies in Sociology, Anthropology, Economics, and Accounting, equipping him with a multidimensional perspective that informs his journalistic approach and deepens his understanding of the social and economic forces affecting diaspora communities. Beyond his work in media, Emmanuel is the founder of FighterMindset, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting cancer survivors. As a survivor himself, Emmanuel channels his personal journey into advocacy and empowerment, offering resources and hope to others facing similar battles. His career is a testament to resilience, purpose, and the transformative power of storytelling.

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