Survivors of sexual violence in Haiti face increasing risks and diminishing support amid the growing influence of armed gangsa collapsed healthcare system and a frozen judicial system, a report warned on Monday.
Nearly 4,000 women and girls reported being victims of sexual violence in the first 10 months of 2024, Human Rights Watch (HRW) said in the report, noting that many people do not report due to fear of retaliation and poor prospects. to receive help.
Those who seek care often cannot do so within the critical 72-hour window to access medications to treat HIV exposure or emergency contraception, the report said, as many cannot afford private healthcare and clinics. Public buildings close due to violence.
In October, the UN warned that only 24% of health centers were functioning in the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area. This month, Doctors Without Borders, a major provider of free healthcare, ceased operations, citing threats of rape and death by police.
The Haitian feminist organization Neges Mawon said that this year it has received reports of some 230 rapes in two neighborhoods on the outskirts of the capital, and that four pregnant women died due to poor health care and the blockage of medical supplies. Abortion is illegal in Haiti.
A 25-year-old mother of four told HRW that she was raped by four men in the Cite Soleil area of Port-au-Prince while searching for water. “Now they do what they want to us,” he said. “I couldn’t go to the doctor. I didn’t have any money.”
Connect with the Voice of America! Subscribe to our channels YouTube, WhatsApp and to newsletter. Turn on notifications and follow us on Facebook, x and Instagram.
Add Comment