Story perspectives

Haiti's Sexual Abuse Cases Surge Amid Gang Violence

1/31/2026

Center

Doctors Combat Abuse

In Haiti, sexual abuse cases at a Port-au-Prince clinic have tripled in four years amid gang violence.
Doctors Without Borders (MSF) reported half of patients were attacked by multiple assailants and urged government expansion of support of services, including a 24/7 hotline.
The clinic struggles to find shelters for survivors.
Many survivors are displaced and stigmatized, delaying help-seeking.
Pope Leo XIV emphasized a cautious approach to clergy abuse, focusing on justice and charity.

Left

Emma Tackles Tech Abuse

Refuge, the UK domestic abuse charity, reports a 62% rise in referrals for technology-facilitated abuse, with wearables such as smartwatches used for stalking.
Emma Pickering, head of Refuge's tech abuse team, says tech companies must improve product safety to curb abuse.
The Molly Rose Foundation warns that the Com exploits vulnerable children for sexual abuse and self-harm through gaming and messaging platforms, prompting a coordinated global response.

History

Historical Context

Haiti has long struggled with systemic violence against women, exacerbated by political instability and inadequate support services. In 1993, under military rule, politically motivated sexual violence surged, with reports of targeted assaults. By 2019, gang violence had escalated, leading to increased sexual violence, with 50% of patients treated by Doctors Without Borders reporting multiple assaults, highlighting the urgent need for effective protective measures.

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Doctors Combat Abuse

In Haiti, sexual abuse cases at a Port-au-Prince clinic have tripled in four years amid gang violence.
Doctors Without Borders (MSF) reported half of patients were attacked by multiple assailants and urged government expansion of support of services, including a 24/7 hotline.
The clinic struggles to find shelters for survivors.
Many survivors are displaced and stigmatized, delaying help-seeking.
Pope Leo XIV emphasized a cautious approach to clergy abuse, focusing on justice and charity.

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