Key findings
Frustrations with the response
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Some aid is reportedly being distributed according to political support, creating discontent and distrust. This is likely to persist in the run-up to 20 November elections.
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Discontent could increase as the response remains slow, leading to more security incidents and protection concerns.
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A focus on the most severely affected areas in the south puts those affected in other areas at risk of neglect, exacerbating their needs and potentially leading to further tensions.
Physical safety and security
Physical safety and security
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Lack of lighting at night leads to an insecure environment in areas affected by the hurricane. Women and girls in shelters have no private space.
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Sexual and gender-based violence is a major concern, particularly in shelters, where cases of rape have already been reported.
Forced relocation
- The government has announced a plan to close all remaining temporary shelters, but no strategy is in place to assist those who have lost their homes. Forced relocations and evictions of IDPs have occurred in Haiti in the past.
Property issues
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Documentation has been lost, boundary stones destroyed, property owners have died and previously informal land ownership arrangements will need to be formalised.
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Issues related to land and property rights have been a major concern in Haiti in the past, hampering the reconstruction of shelters. Displacement and loss of housing are likely to lead to similar challenges and tensions.
Child protection
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125,000 children are estimated to be in need of protection from violence, exploitation, and abuse.
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Other concerns include lack of documentation, including loss of birth certificates, and a risk of human trafficking.