The International Rescue Committee warned that in 2024, thousands more individuals may be compelled to flee Ecuador and Haiti due to escalating violence, climate-related impacts, and worsening poverty. The organization stated that “multiple factors” will contribute to deteriorating living conditions for millions of people in these countries, potentially leading thousands to seek safety elsewhere.
According to Panama’s migration agency, the number of Ecuadoreans and Haitians crossing the perilous Darien Gap, a jungle region between Colombia and Panama, saw a significant increase in 2023, with more than 57,000 Ecuadoreans and 46,000 Haitians making the journey.
Julio Rank Wright, the IRC regional head, highlighted the ripple effect of the crises in Haiti and Ecuador across the entire region.
In Ecuador, the IRC reported escalating conflict between government forces and criminal groups, with a recent surge in violence following the escape of a gang leader from prison. Additionally, the country is likely to experience flooding due to above-average rainfall from the El Nino weather phenomenon, which could lead to agricultural damage and increased food insecurity.
In Haiti, the aftermath of the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in 2021 has led to the rise of gang control, with around 200 gangs now operating in the country. The country has observed frequent anti-government protests and clashes over the past month, as reported by the Global Initiative Against Transnational Crime in February.
The IRC expressed concerns over the ability of the Haitian government to address the escalating violence and growing needs without a functioning political system.
Prime Minister Ariel Henry has requested support from a U.N. mission, with Kenya offering to lead the force. However, the plan faces constitutional setbacks in Haiti, and no deployment date has been set. The IRC also predicted that food insecurity will likely deepen in Haiti in 2024, with gangs exerting influence in rural areas and threatening farmers.
The IRC emphasized the gaps in support for both countries and called on world leaders to make “concrete funding commitments,” pointing out that nearly half of Haiti’s population requires humanitarian aid and almost 40% of Ecuadoreans live below the poverty line.
(Reporting by Kylie Madry in Mexico City; Additional reporting by Eli Moreno in Panama City; Editing by Ros Russell)
