Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
Haiti is facing a severe humanitarian crisis, with about 6.4 million people needing aid and 1.47 million displaced mainly due to escalating gang violence. Over 5.8 million are expected to face hunger this year as armed groups control many neighborhoods and critical infrastructure remains disrupted.
Ongoing violence by heavily armed gangs, mainly in the capital Port-au-Prince, is the main obstacle to Haiti's recovery. Conflict between criminal factions over territory and extortion has intensified, causing widespread instability and hardship for civilians.
Humanitarian organizations have received only a quarter of the $880 million requested for 2026, limiting their ability to maintain hospitals, nutrition programs, and emergency shelters amid the worsening situation.
Despite these challenges, Haitian authorities plan to hold presidential elections. The $120 million election budget has been agreed upon, raising hopes that voting can take place before the end of 2026, with an elected president to assume office in February 2027. However, credible elections depend on major improvements in security, which remain undermined by gang control of major routes and neighborhoods.
The combined crises of violence, displacement, economic hardship, and disrupted essential services like healthcare, education, and water continue to worsen living conditions for millions in Haiti. International support is arriving to help address the violence and political uncertainty.