United Nations Humanitarian Coordinator in Haiti deeply disturbed by the tragic consequences of violence affecting children and displaced people

Port-au-Prince,19 May 2025 –

The United Nations Humanitarian Coordinator in Haiti, Ms. Ulrika Richardson, expresses her deep concern and shock at the news of the tragic death of a six-year-old girl, which occurred on 3 May 2025 at the Fontaine Hospital in Cité Soleil. The child, who had been displaced along with her family, was the victim of rape in a temporary displacement site.

"This intolerable act shakes our conscience. It serves as a stark reminder of the extreme dangers faced by children in Haiti, particularly those forced to live in precarious conditions. No child should ever endure such violence. We hope that justice will be served," said Ms. Richardson.

In Haiti, ongoing armed violence has led to a significant increase in the number of internally displaced children. Since September 2024, their numbers have surged by nearly 50%, according to UNICEF. Approximately 53% of internally displaced people (IDPs) are children, according to IOM. Today, around one in eight children is displaced, deprived of stability, education, and often exposed to heightened risks of violence and exploitation. Every minute, a child in Haiti is displaced due to violence.

Reports of sexual violence against children have also seen a dramatic rise—an increase of 1,000% between 2023 and 2024, according to United Nations data.

In light of this alarming situation, the United Nations reaffirms its commitment to supporting child protection mechanisms, ensuring access to appropriate services, and working in close coordination with Haitian authorities and humanitarian partners to build a safer and more dignified environment for all children.

"We cannot look away. The suffering of Haiti’s children is a call to our collective humanity. Acting together, in a coordinated and determined manner, is more necessary than ever to protect civilians and secure displacement sites," added Ms. Richardson. “The United Nations, through its agencies, funds and programmes, remains fully mobilized to help protect children, prevent abuse, and respond to the urgent needs of the most vulnerable—wherever they may be, and under any circumstances.”

For more information, please contact:
Claire-Emmanuelle Pressoir, Public Information Officer, OCHA Haiti, Port-au-Prince
claire.pressoir@un.org