Concern’s work in Haiti continues despite weekend violence

“There is great uncertainty, with some parts of the city more stable than others.  Our 70-strong team are continuing to work to meet the escalating needs of communities,” Concern’s Country Director in Haiti, Kwanli Kladstrup said.

“With an estimated five million of Haiti’s 11 million population currently facing acute hunger, peace and security needs to be established as quickly as possible to enable humanitarian work to be ramped up further,” she said.

Haiti’s state of emergency was announced and a night time curfew was imposed at the weekend after violent clashes between the police and armed gangs in the capital damaged communications and resulted in thousands of prisoners being freed from jail. 

Haiti remains one of the top five most food-insecure countries in the world, with tens of thousands of people living one step below the technical threshold for famine in some areas.

Concern is currently providing a range of supports including food assistance, water and sanitation, and psychosocial support for survivors of gender-based violence. 

“The needs are enormous and the situation is made even worse by the recent escalation in violence.  Everybody is traumatised and we are seeing increased numbers of people being forced to flee their homes – often bringing nothing with them – to escape the fighting,” Ms Kladstrup said.

For media queries contact Eamon Timmins, Media Relations Manager, Concern Worldwide, at 087 9880524 or eamon.timmins@concern.net