The United Nations has raised serious alarm over worsening humanitarian conditions in both Haiti and Cuba, citing a sharp rise in gender-based violence in Haiti and growing resource shortages in Cuba following last year’s devastating hurricane.
On Monday, UN Secretary-General spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said the organisation is “deeply alarmed” by the surge in gender-based violence in Haiti, where an estimated 8,000 cases were reported over the past year—representing a 25 per cent increase compared with the previous year.
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Speaking at the UN’s daily press briefing, Dujarric cautioned that the reported figures likely reflect only a fraction of the true scale of the crisis, due to widespread underreporting.
“Survivors also report that incidents frequently occur in overcrowded displacement sites,” Dujarric told reporters. “Access to emergency care remains extremely limited. Only 30 per cent of survivors were able to receive assistance within 72 hours, increasing the risk of sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancies.”
He added that chronic underfunding has further compounded the situation, leaving many survivors without access to legal assistance, child protection services, or safe shelter.
“This year, we and our partners are seeking US$24 million to prevent and respond to gender-based violence, targeting 1.5 million people with medical, psychological and other forms of support,” Dujarric said.
At the same time, humanitarian agencies are working to avert additional public health crises in Haiti’s overcrowded displacement camps. In Port-au-Prince, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) said it is actively monitoring water quality to prevent cholera outbreaks and safeguard lives.
The IOM noted that through simulations and practical training exercises, displaced families are being supported to strengthen safe water practices, with assistance from the European Union’s Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Delegation in Haiti.
Turning to Cuba, Dujarric said the United Nations remains closely engaged with authorities as the country continues to grapple with the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, which struck last October and affected more than two million people.
“We are concerned about the growing fuel shortages and their impact on people,” Dujarric said. “This includes disruptions to the delivery of clean water, medical care, food and other critical aid in parts of Cuba hit hard by Hurricane Melissa.”
He also warned that fuel scarcity could have broader consequences, including potential disruptions to airport operations across the island.
Dujarric said that in November, the UN country team in Cuba launched a comprehensive plan of action to support national recovery efforts in response to the hurricane’s impact.
“We remain committed to supporting recovery efforts led by the authorities and to helping families recover,” he said. “The plan of action, which seeks US$74 million, is currently only 23 per cent funded. We urgently call for more funding to ensure aid reaches those who need it.”
