Toronto, ON, November 21, 2024 – Escalating violence in Haiti has now displaced nearly 20,000 people in the Port-au-Prince region alone, according to the United Nations’ latest figures. Meanwhile, humanitarian operations face critical funding gaps, with the $674 million Humanitarian Response Plan only 43% funded, leaving urgent needs unmet across the country.

Funding for critical services for children, including education and protection, remains alarmingly low. According to the UN‘s Haiti Humanitarian Response Plan 2024, only 33.1% and 30.9% of funding needs for the education sector and the protection cluster, respectively, have been met, leaving thousands of children without the safety, support, and opportunities they urgently require. These sectors are vital for safeguarding children from exploitation, trafficking, and the long-term impacts of violence, and a significant increase in funding is desperately needed.

As Haiti grapples with escalating violence, political instability, and a deepening humanitarian crisis, Johnson Bien-Aime, Plan International‘s Country Director in Haiti, sheds light on the urgent challenges facing children and families across the nation.

“Haiti‘s escalating violence is also a profound child protection crisis. Every day, children are being robbed of their safety, their education, and the chance to simply be children,” he said. “Families are trapped in fear, and the hunger crisis is worsening – leaving nearly half the population facing acute food insecurity.”

“The risks for children, especially girls, are unthinkable, as they face increased dangers of trafficking, exploitation, and recruitment by armed groups. Plan International remains unwavering in our commitment to these children and their families. Our teams are providing critical child protection services, including safe spaces, psychosocial support, and case management for the most vulnerable.”

“We‘re collaborating with local organizations to reach hard-hit areas and expanding efforts to provide food, education, and care to those who need it most. However, this work requires urgent action from the international community. We need safe, unhindered access to affected communities and increased support to protect children and provide life-saving aid. Together, we can help these children find safety and hope amidst this turmoil.”

About Plan International Canada

Plan International Canada is a member of a global organization dedicated to advancing children’s rights and equality for girls. Plan International has been building powerful partnerships for children for over 85 years and is now active in more than 80 countries.

We stand with children, especially girls, wherever they are oppressed, exploited, left behind or not equally valued. We’re determined optimists and will continue to persevere until we are all equal.

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