United Nations warns Haiti gang violence threatens elections

The United Nations has warned that escalating violence in Haiti is jeopardizing efforts to end the country’s prolonged political transition and organize democratic elections. UN Secretary-General António Guterres reported that armed groups are expanding their activities into rural areas despite increased security operations.

Between July and early October, 1,123 people were killed and 440 were injured in incidents involving armed groups. The UN also documented significant sexual violence, noting that 689 women and girls were victims of aggression in July and August, with 87% of those cases being rapes committed by gangs.

Persistent insecurity and logistical hurdles have forced the postponement of presidential and legislative elections, which were originally intended to restore democratic governance. The UN is urging Haitian authorities to establish a realistic and credible timetable for elections that accounts for current security conditions, voter registration challenges, and the need for safe campaigning.

The humanitarian crisis continues to worsen, with nearly 1.5 million people displaced, including over 740,000 children. Additionally, the Haitian economy is projected to contract for a seventh consecutive year.