A Nation Under Siege: Understanding the Crisis in Haiti

Haiti is currently experiencing an unprecedented social, political, and humanitarian crisis. The assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021 triggered a power vacuum exploited by criminal groups who now control significant portions of Port-au-Prince and beyond. Amnesty International reports that gang violence has displaced over 1.2 million people in the first half of 2025 alone, with more than 1,000 lives lost. This escalating insecurity has created a climate of fear and vulnerability, particularly for women and girls.

The roots of Haiti’s instability are complex, stemming from decades of political corruption, economic inequality, and foreign intervention. The Council on Foreign Relations provides a detailed analysis of the historical factors contributing to the current crisis. However, the immediate impact is devastating, with limited access to essential services like healthcare, education, and legal protection.

Nègès Mawon: A Legacy of Resistance and Empowerment

Founded by Pascale Solages and others in 2015, Nègès Mawon (meaning “Runaway Women” in Haitian Creole) is more than just an organization; it’s a symbol of resistance. The name itself evokes the history of enslaved women who fought for freedom and self-determination in Haiti, the world’s first Black republic. Solages explains that Nègès Mawon aims to challenge colonial legacies and ongoing foreign control, fighting for the freedom, humanity, and well-being of Haitian women.

“We chose the name Nègès Mawon that reflects our vision as Black women and Haitian women, and that carries deep meaning connected to our national history,” Solages states. “Nègès Mawon symbolizes resistance. It reminds us of enslaved people who fled the colonies, fought oppression, and claimed their freedom while also helping others to be free.”

The Disproportionate Impact on Women and Girls

The current crisis in Haiti is exacerbating existing gender inequalities. Women and girls are facing increased risks of sexual violence, used as a weapon of control by armed groups. Access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities has been severely curtailed. The very right to dream of a safe and secure future is under attack.

Solages shares a harrowing personal story, revealing her own experiences with gender-based violence as a child. This trauma fueled her commitment to creating a safe space for other survivors. “I wanted to create the space I needed as a young girl, for other women and girls who were also survivors of sexual violence,” she explains. “So, the mix of my own experience as a Haitian girl and woman…inspired me to create Nègès Mawon.”

What responsibility do international actors bear in addressing the root causes of this crisis and ensuring the safety of Haitian women and girls? How can we move beyond short-term aid and towards sustainable solutions that empower local communities?

Providing Lifesaving Support: Nègès Mawon’s Programs

Nègès Mawon provides a comprehensive range of services to support survivors of gender-based violence. This includes medical care from a network of nurses, midwives, and doctors; legal assistance from dedicated lawyers; and psychological counseling from trained therapists. The organization also operates a safe house, offering shelter, healing, and opportunities for economic autonomy.

Beyond direct support, Nègès Mawon advocates for policies that protect women’s rights, including access to safe and legal abortion services. Recognizing that unsafe abortion is a leading cause of maternal mortality in Haiti, particularly among young women who have experienced rape, the organization actively works to expand reproductive healthcare options.

Solages emphasizes the critical need for increased resources. “Civil society and feminist organizations do not have sufficient resources to meet the scale of need. We do not have enough time, funding, personnel, or energy to support everyone who deserves help.”

Did You Know?:

A Call for Global Solidarity

Solages urges the international community to listen to Haitian voices and respect the expertise of local organizations. “Give space for local organizations to speak for themselves, to advocate for their communities, and to represent the people they serve. Our voices matter. Respect our sovereignty, our expertise, and our right to speak for ourselves.”

She also stresses the importance of sustained attention and support. “As a Haitian feminist, it is deeply important to me that the world keeps its attention on Haiti. We know there are crises everywhere…But we also ask: do not forget Haiti.”

Solages’ message to the Haitian government is direct: “Do your job. Millions of people, women and girls are suffering. Thousands are dying. People are losing hope…The government has resources and authority. It must act with accountability and responsibility.”

Frequently Asked Questions About the Crisis in Haiti and Nègès Mawon

• What is the current situation for women in Haiti?

  Women and girls in Haiti are disproportionately affected by the ongoing crisis, facing increased risks of sexual violence, limited access to essential services, and a loss of hope for the future.

• What does Nègès Mawon do to support Haitian women?

  Nègès Mawon provides comprehensive support services, including medical care, legal assistance, psychological counseling, safe shelter, and advocacy for women’s rights.

• How can I help support Nègès Mawon’s work?

  You can support Nègès Mawon by donating to their organization, raising awareness about the crisis in Haiti, and advocating for policies that protect women’s rights. Visit their website to learn more.

• What are the root causes of the crisis in Haiti?

  The crisis in Haiti is rooted in decades of political corruption, economic inequality, and foreign intervention, exacerbated by the assassination of President Moïse in 2021.

• Why is it important to support local organizations like Nègès Mawon?

  Local organizations have a deep understanding of the context and needs of the communities they serve, and are best positioned to provide effective and sustainable solutions.