The United Nations’ human rights expert for Haiti has strongly condemned the deliberate assaults on hospitals and healthcare professionals by armed gangs, characterizing the situation in the country as critical. William O’Neill pointed out that medical facilities, already struggling, are on the brink of collapse, with only 37 percent operating effectively amidst rampant violence. Recent attacks, including the assault at the Bernard Mevs Hospital and violence at the General Hospital, further endanger the lives of both medical staff and patients.
O’Neill lamented the repercussion of this violence on the Haitian populace, with children and vulnerable groups bearing the brunt of deteriorating health conditions. Reports illustrate gangs have resorted to murder and kidnapping of healthcare workers, crippling medical services and igniting fears of epidemic outbreaks. The dire circumstances highlight the urgent need for local and international assistance to restore order and security.
The situation has escalated, with healthcare facilities attacked and journalists facing life-threatening situations due to chaos. O’Neill urged the international community to step in and support Haitian authorities as they grapple with these crises. He stressed the importance of protecting healthcare access, insisting that those responsible for such violent acts must be held accountable to safeguard the right to health for all Haitians.
UN human rights expert William O’Neill condemned armed gangs’ attacks on healthcare facilities in Haiti, stressing that medical services are near collapse. He highlighted the impact on public health, with only 37% of hospitals functional. Urging the international community to support Haitian authorities, O’Neill called for accountability for those responsible for violence.
In summary, the attacks on healthcare facilities in Haiti are a systemic violation of human rights that jeopardizes the well-being of the population. The UN’s call for international action emphasizes the need for immediate support to restore functionality in the health sector and ensure the safety of healthcare providers. Addressing the immense threat from armed gangs is crucial for protecting essential services and the innocent lives depending on them.
Haiti’s public health system has suffered immensely due to social and political instability, compounded by violence from criminal gangs. The situation has escalated drastically, resulting in severe restrictions to healthcare access. Hospitals and clinics are not only facing operational challenges but also threats to their very existence. The consequences are dire, affecting the health rights and safety of countless individuals, especially children in need of medical care.
Original Source: www.jamaicaobserver.com
