Haiti in ‘free fall’ as violence escalates, rights group warns

Haiti is experiencing a rapid deterioration in security, with armed groups intensifying deadly attacks in Port-au-Prince. Only 10% of the city remains under government control since President Jovenel Moise's assassination in 2021. Gang attacks on prisons and state institutions have worsened the crisis, while a UN-backed police mission struggles due to insufficient funding and equipment. Self-defense groups have formed but are contributing to increased violence. Protests against the transitional presidential council have escalated, prompting a recent state of emergency declaration. The UN reports over 1,500 deaths and millions displaced, raising severe humanitarian concerns including rape, starvation, and children's vulnerability to exploitation.