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Food supply

Haiti Faces Extreme Famine and Starvation Risk

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Haiti is one of the five countries facing extreme famine and the risk of starvation in the coming months due to worsening food security, escalating gang violence, and a prolonged economic crisis. A joint assessment by the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization and the World Food Program reveals that over 5.7 million people, about 51% of Haiti's population, are projected to face acute food insecurity this year. The country is particularly threatened by armed gangs, which have expanded their control, committing widespread violence and killings.

Key Takeaways:

  • Over 5.7 million people in Haiti, about 51% of the population, are projected to face acute food insecurity this year, with 2.1 million in emergency conditions.
  • More than 8,400 displaced people living in camps are at risk of catastrophic food shortages in the coming months.
  • Haiti has a record 1.3 million internally displaced people, a 24% increase over the past six months.
  • Armed gangs control over 85% of Port-au-Prince, the capital city, and have extended their reach into farming areas, public infrastructure, and major roads.
  • Haiti's economy is expected to shrink further in 2025 due to stagnant agricultural production and falling export revenue.
  • Annual inflation reached 37.5% in February 2025, and the Haitian gourde remains fragile, fueling a surge in food prices.
  • Haiti is facing a stronger-than-average hurricane season, which could further strain food production and livelihoods.

Statistics:

  • 5.7 million people (51% of Haiti's population) are projected to face acute food insecurity this year.
  • 2.1 million people are in emergency conditions.
  • 8,400 displaced people are at risk of catastrophic food shortages.
  • 1.3 million internally displaced people (a 24% increase over the past six months).
  • 85% of Port-au-Prince is controlled by armed gangs.
  • 37.5% annual inflation rate in February 2025.
  • Haiti's economy is expected to shrink further in 2025.

Sources:

  • Joint assessment by the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization and the World Food Program
  • UPI report by Macarena Hermosilla on June 17
  • U.N. report on hunger in 13 global hotspots
  • USAID report on Haiti's humanitarian situation

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