Haitians Face Despair as Economic Struggles Push Many Towards Migration, UN Agency Reports
Haitians gathered at a point on the border between their country and the Dominican Republic are facing a bleak reality, with the lack of economic opportunities, a collapsed health system, and closed schools leaving many with little hope for the future. According to a statement from the International Organization for Migration (IOM), a United Nations entity, for many Haitians, migrating has become their only viable option.
In March, nearly 13,000 migrants were repatriated to Haiti by neighboring countries, a 46 percent increase from the previous month. Despite the challenges posed by insecurity and violence, almost 3,000 of these migrants received humanitarian assistance upon their return, with an additional 1,200 benefiting from psychosocial support provided by the IOM.
The humanitarian situation in Haiti is dire, with the IOM estimating that there are 360,000 displaced people throughout the country. Nearly 100,000 of these displaced individuals are living in temporary settlements with inadequate access to basic necessities such as food, medical care, water, and hygiene facilities.
Humanitarian personnel in Haiti are facing unprecedented challenges as they strive to meet the urgent needs of the population trapped in violence. The IOM warned of an increase in cases of suicidal tendencies, especially among displaced populations, as the country grapples with widespread insecurity and instability.
As the situation in Haiti continues to deteriorate, the IOM is working tirelessly to provide support to those in need. With millions of liters of water delivered to internally displaced people and psychosocial assistance provided to returning migrants, the agency remains committed to addressing the pressing humanitarian needs in the country.
(With information from Prensa Latina)