Report finds soaring oil prices threaten to deepen hunger in Haiti
AP News • • world
Key Points:
- Over 5.83 million Haitians, more than half the population, are expected to face acute hunger from March to June, a slight decrease from previous estimates, but the situation remains critical due to factors like soaring oil prices linked to the war in Iran.
- The report attributes minor improvements to reduced inflation, favorable winter weather, and better road access, but warns that these gains are insufficient to reverse the overall trend of food insecurity exacerbated by armed violence and economic disruption.
- Rising fuel prices following government hikes in early April are expected to increase transportation costs and food prices, worsening hunger, especially in gang-controlled regions like the northwest and impoverished neighborhoods of the capital.
- Gang violence has displaced 1.4 million people, with 70% of those in displacement sites experiencing high food insecurity, highlighting the link between insecurity and the deepening hunger crisis.
- Officials emphasize the need for strengthened national responses and support for local agriculture as essential measures to combat hunger and restore stability in Haiti.
