16 July 2025 | Peace & Security
HAITI: Hunger and Underfunding Amid Worsening Violence
The humanitarian crisis in Haiti continues to escalate, with over 5.7 million people facing food insecurity, the United Nations reports. Gang-related violence is crippling food production in vital agricultural areas such as Kenscoff and Artibonite, often referred to as the nation’s breadbasket.
Despite the best efforts of humanitarian agencies, only 38% of the targeted population has been reached, due to violent unrest, logistical challenges, and severe underfunding. The 2025 UN humanitarian appeal for Haiti remains the least funded globally, with just over 2% of the $425 million required received so far.
“We are doing what we can, wherever and whenever possible,” said UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric.
MYANMAR: Civilian Suffering and Aid Access Blocked by Conflict
Nearly four months after a devastating earthquake, Myanmar’s conflict between the military and opposition forces is intensifying, with civilians increasingly caught in the crossfire.
On 11 July, an airstrike hit a monastery sheltering displaced civilians in Sagaing Region, killing 22 people and injuring over 50. Another airstrike reportedly struck a displacement camp in North Shan State.
“These incidents are part of a broader pattern,” warned the UN, noting that one in three people in Myanmar now faces acute hunger, worsened by monsoon flooding and limited humanitarian access. The UN has called on all parties to respect international humanitarian law.
BELARUS: UN Experts Demand Probe into Political Prisoner Deaths
In Belarus, UN human rights experts are urging an independent investigation into the deaths of several political prisoners.
The case of Valiantsin Shtermer, 61, who died in May while incarcerated at Šklou Correctional Colony, has drawn international concern. Shtermer, imprisoned for criticizing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, reportedly received inadequate medical care.
Similarly, Vitold Ashurak, a 50-year-old activist linked to the Belarusian National Front, died shortly after solitary confinement in the same facility. He had been jailed for participating in protests following the disputed 2020 presidential elections.
“These deaths must not be ignored,” said the UN Special Rapporteurs, stressing that the deaths appear to be retaliatory measures against individuals exercising their right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
“There are strong reasons to believe these individuals lost their lives due to neglect and abuse in retaliation for their political beliefs.”
