Haiti’s looming elections intersect with a deepening humanitarian crisis and security shortfall

Around 6.4 million people in Haiti now require humanitarian assistance, and almost 1.5 million have been forced from their homes. Armed gangs have seized large sections of Port‑au‑Prince and dominate essential transport corridors, creating bottlenecks that obstruct the delivery of food, medical supplies and other critical services. The resulting insecurity hampers both local livelihoods and the ability of aid agencies to reach vulnerable populations, deepening the crisis as the country approaches a pivotal electoral moment.

A UN‑backed Gang Suppression Force was authorized for 5,500 personnel, yet only 1,083 troops are currently deployed, limiting its capacity to secure corridors and protect aid convoys. The proliferation of weapons, largely sourced from outside Haiti, fuels gang power. In response, Haitian authorities are expanding their own security apparatus by training and recruiting additional police officers and soldiers, while two specialized judicial units are being deployed to tackle impunity, financial crime and sexual violence. Full deployment of the UN force is repeatedly urged as a prerequisite for stabilizing the environment.

Children caught in the conflict, including those recruited by gangs, are highlighted as a priority for protection, education and safe reintegration pathways. The upcoming general elections, scheduled for 13 December 2026, have already seen electoral operations launched and citizen registration underway. International actors stress that a credible, free and inclusive vote is essential for restoring legitimacy and long‑term stability. However, any gains in security must be swiftly followed by the restoration of basic services—schools, justice institutions and economic activity—to ensure lasting benefits for Haiti’s youngest citizens.