Haiti Faces Alarming Surge in Sexual Violence Amid Gang Control

The ongoing gang violence in Haiti has led to a significant increase in sexual abuse cases, with reports indicating that the number of incidents treated at the Pran Men’m clinic in Port-au-Prince has tripled over the past four years. Doctors Without Borders (MSF) expressed alarm over the situation, highlighting that the severity of the cases has also escalated. Diana Manilla Arroyo, MSF's head of mission in Haiti, noted that many victims are attacked by multiple perpetrators, with over 100 individuals reporting assaults involving ten or more attackers.

Haiti faces sexual violence and abuse crisis as gang violence spreads, MSF says

The clinic has treated nearly 17,000 patients since its inception a decade ago, with 2,300 cases recorded in the first nine months of 2025 alone. Notably, the demographics of victims have shifted; the proportion of patients under 18 has decreased from 50% to 24%, while cases involving individuals aged 50-80 have surged sevenfold.

Haiti faces sexual violence and abuse crisis as gang violence spreads, MSF says

Armed gangs currently dominate approximately 90% of Port-au-Prince, employing sexual violence as a tactic to instill fear and exert control over communities. This violence often occurs during kidnappings and territorial disputes, as well as to manipulate access to humanitarian aid. MSF reported harrowing accounts from survivors, including a 53-year-old woman who was raped by three men, one of whom was young enough to be her child.

Haiti faces sexual violence and abuse crisis as gang violence spreads, MSF says

The situation is particularly dire for those living in makeshift shelters, where families are forced to remain close together due to the heightened risk of sexual violence against children. A 34-year-old woman highlighted the dangers faced by young boys and girls in these environments, emphasizing the constant threat of rape.

Haiti faces sexual violence and abuse crisis as gang violence spreads, MSF says

The United Nations has reported that gang violence has displaced a record 1.4 million people in Haiti, with nearly 70% of those seeking help for sexual abuse being among the displaced. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) noted that the number of internally displaced individuals has more than tripled in the past year, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

Haiti faces sexual violence and abuse crisis as gang violence spreads, MSF says

The forced return of approximately 200,000 Haitians from the Dominican Republic has further strained resources and services in the country. The relentless gang violence has contributed to the collapse of healthcare and other essential services, leaving many vulnerable and without support.

Haiti faces sexual violence and abuse crisis as gang violence spreads, MSF says

MSF has called for urgent action to address the overwhelming levels of sexual and gender-based violence in Haiti, urging the international community to respond effectively to the crisis. The organization has emphasized the need for improved safety and support for victims, particularly in light of the ongoing stigma and lack of trust in Haiti's police and justice system.

Haiti faces sexual violence and abuse crisis as gang violence spreads, MSF says

Despite the presence of a UN-backed multinational security force, critics argue that the intervention has had little impact on curbing the violence. The situation remains precarious, with rising fatalities—over 5,600 reported deaths in 2024, a 20% increase from the previous year—underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to restore safety and stability in Haiti.

Haiti faces sexual violence and abuse crisis as gang violence spreads, MSF says

• “The extent to which numbers have increased, it has shocked us,” — Diana Manilla Arroyo, MSF Head of Mission in Haiti

Haiti faces sexual violence and abuse crisis as gang violence spreads, MSF says

• “Armed groups are using sexual violence to terrorise, control and subjugate communities,” — Diana Manilla Arroyo, MSF Head of Mission in Haiti

Haiti faces sexual violence and abuse crisis as gang violence spreads, MSF says

• “Mothers are forced to stay close because when a child begins to grow, they can become a target for rape at any moment,” — Anonymous, local resident

Haiti faces sexual violence and abuse crisis as gang violence spreads, MSF says