The big picture. The Caribbean nation is in the grip of a deepening security, humanitarian and governance crisis. Armed gangs control large swathes of the capital Port-au-Prince and beyond, displacing families and restricting access to schools, healthcare and basic services. Poverty is worsening for the most vulnerable families, and children are increasingly susceptible to gang recruitment, in order to earn money. Services to protect children are overstretched or absent, leaving minors at risk in neighborhoods where gangs exert control. What’s happening: Extortion and control At least 26 gangs, with names like 103 Zombies, Village de Dieu, Tokyo and Kraze Barye, operate in Port-au-Prince and surrounding areas. They control territory, violently extort communities and fight the beleaguered Haitian security forces for dominance. As clashes intensify, the gangs rely on a steady stream of recruits, including children, to maintain control. Pierre recruited at age 10: “They (gang membe...
