An Alarming Surge in Armed Violence in Haiti Raises Malnutrition Crisis Risk
The recent Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) analysis reveals a concerning 19% increase in severe acute malnutrition cases among children in Haiti this year. This surge in armed violence in areas like the Artibonite department and the West department, including Port au Prince, is exacerbating the risk of a malnutrition crisis in the country.
Key Findings:
- 1.64 million people in Haiti are facing emergency levels of acute food insecurity (IPC Phase 4).
- Over 125,000 children are at risk due to restricted aid delivery and a fragile healthcare system.
UNICEF’s Response:
UNICEF Executive Director, Catherine Russell, emphasizes the urgent need for basic security in Haiti to ensure the delivery of life-saving services and humanitarian aid. The agency is working tirelessly to protect families and provide essential support despite the challenging security situation.
DR Congo Faces New Misery Amid Violent Clashes in North Kivu
Violent clashes in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) have displaced 5.7 million people across North Kivu, South Kivu, and Ituri provinces. The UN refugee agency, UNHCR, reports a devastating escalation in violence, with civilians fleeing indiscriminate bombing and abuse.
Humanitarian Response:
- Emergency shelters provided to over 40,000 vulnerable individuals in Goma.
- Distribution of relief kits and tarpaulins to those seeking shelter outside protection sites.
UN Expert Urges Colombia to Cement Peace Agreement Implementation
UN human rights expert Antonia Urrejola calls for the implementation of Colombia’s historic 2016 Peace Agreement as a new State policy. She emphasizes the importance of adopting a human rights approach focused on victims in all dialogue processes with non-state armed groups.
Challenges and Recommendations:
- Obstacles to implementing the Peace Agreement persist, hindering peacebuilding efforts.
- Urrejola recommends the creation of a high-level Government position to oversee the Agreement’s implementation and ensure effective coordination.