The Salvation Army has called for enhanced humanitarian access and stronger protections for women and children displaced by ongoing violence in Haiti. This appeal occurred during an intervention at the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva.
Markus Hofer, the organization’s representative at the UN, highlighted the urgent need for coordinated, survivor-centered services and accountability for human rights violations during the interactive dialogue on Haiti’s human rights situation, which was led by UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk.
Hofer drew upon the Salvation Army’s extensive experience in Haiti, which spans over 75 years. He described the severe impact of armed violence on local communities, emphasizing the plight of women and children. He noted that more than 1.5 million people are currently displaced, many living in overcrowded conditions with limited access to essential services. There is a critical need to address widespread sexual and gender-based violence, as well as provide justice and protection for survivors.
“Children are also bearing the consequences,” Hofer stated. He pointed out the closure of schools and the deterioration of healthcare access, alongside the ongoing risk faced by children associated with armed groups.
During the session, Hofer inquired what specific actions the international community could take to ensure that adequate support reaches the most vulnerable populations. In response, William G. O’Neill, the UN Designated Expert on the situation of human rights in Haiti, underscored the necessity for increased expertise and resources for local judicial bodies. He noted that Haiti currently has only one center for children recruited by armed groups, which serves around 300 children, and asserted that at least four or five additional centers are essential to meet the demand.
The Universal Periodic Review examines the human rights record of all UN member states and offers recommendations to strengthen the protection of human rights. Through its collaboration with the UN, The Salvation Army aims to bring frontline experiences into global discussions, advocating for the rights and voices of the most vulnerable individuals.
This intervention comes as organizations continue to highlight human rights deficiencies in Haiti, particularly affecting women and children. As part of their ongoing advocacy efforts, The Salvation Army seeks to address these issues and calls for broader international support.
