The United Nations says more than 5,700 people were killed or injured in Haiti between 1 January and 11 September 2026 amid escalating gang violence. The toll includes over 230 kidnappings and an estimated 1,000 rapes, with actual numbers likely higher, and more than half of casualties occurring during security operations. Child recruitment into gangs has nearly tripled, and the UN doubts conditions exist for credible elections on 13 December 2026. A multinational police force remains active but has struggled to operate in gang-controlled areas.
UN: More Than 5,700 Killed Or Injured In Haiti This Year As Gang Violence Escalates
The UN said hundreds of casualties were caught in the crossfire during security operations clamping down on gang violence [EPA]
The United Nations reports that more than 5,700 people were killed or injured in Haiti between 1 January and 11 September 2026 amid surging gang violence and operations against armed groups. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk warned the true human cost is likely higher and highlighted a dramatic rise in child recruitment and sexual violence.
UN Findings
According to the UN update, the toll includes over 230 people kidnapped and an estimated 1,000 women and girls raped — a figure the high commissioner said is "likely much higher". More than half of the casualties occurred in the context of security operations targeting gangs, with numerous civilians struck by stray bullets and impacted by explosive drones.
Civilian Impact and Human Rights Concerns
Gangs have long exerted influence in parts of Haiti, but the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse on 7 July 2021 created a power vacuum that allowed violent groups to seize more territory and critical transport routes. The UN says evidence points to a deliberate strategy by gangs to expand control, threatening national stability and public safety.
"No child should be forced to choose between their lives and the security of their neighbours," Volker Türk said, warning that recruitment of children into gangs has nearly tripled and that many minors view gang membership as their only means of survival.
Security Operations and Accountability
Türk reported a recent decline in executions reportedly carried out by specialised police units, but stressed that people accused of gang affiliation still face a high risk of summary execution. The multinational police force deployed since 2025 to confront the violence has had limited access and has struggled to enter areas controlled by gangs.
Political Outlook
Haiti is preparing to hold presidential and legislative elections on 13 December 2026 — its first since 2016 — but the UN high commissioner said it is difficult to imagine conditions that would allow for a credible vote this year given the security environment. Recent actions, such as Haiti's extradition of 18 suspects to the United States in connection with the president's assassination, underline the complex international and domestic dimensions of the crisis.
Key takeaway: The UN warns that escalating gang violence, rising sexual violence, child recruitment and restricted access for security forces are fueling a serious humanitarian and governance crisis in Haiti.
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