Catholic Bishops of Haiti Urge Action and Peace in Face of Widespread Violence
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Haiti has issued a "cry of alarm" for peace, urging the government to take action and all Haitians to strive for peace and defeat hatred in the face of the widespread violence that is paralyzing Port-au-Prince and cutting off Haiti from the outside world.
The Bishops’ Plea
In a statement, the Bishops’ Conference of Haiti expressed their concerns about the severe security situation in the country, stating that there is "no real peace in the country." They highlighted that activities have ceased, schools have been closed, and the capital, Port-au-Prince, is cut off. Even the international airport at Toussaint Louverture is closed, "cutting off Haiti from the rest of the world."
The Bishops’ Concerns
According to Monsignor Max Leroys Mésidor, President of the Bishops’ Conference, "Everyone is on their guard. We all feel threatened." He added, "For two years, we have been operating a pastoral strategy of survival, but since November 11th, the violence has taken a serious turn."
The Situation on the Ground
The United Nations reports that in a matter of days, vital supply networks broke down and over 20,000 residents in the Port-au-Prince region evacuated their homes. Haiti, the most impoverished nation in the Western Hemisphere, has been experiencing a severe political, social, and economic crisis for a long time. Armed gangs are fighting for dominance and area control, sowing fear via their everyday bloodshed. Nearly 700,000 people are said to have been internally displaced because of their cutting off of the main transportation links between the capital and the rest of the nation, which has destroyed livelihoods and deprived the populace of essential amenities.
A Call to Action
The Bishops’ Conference of Haiti is urging the government to act with determination to re-establish security and guarantee the protection of citizens, in line with their primary mission of serving the common good. They also invite members of the government, members of civil society, and protagonists from all sides, armed or unarmed, to recognize that it is time to resolve this problem of ongoing violence. Something must be done.
ACN’s Work in Haiti
Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) has been providing support to the Church in Haiti, funding projects such as solar panel installations, diocesan radio stations, and the education and maintenance of priests, nuns, and catechists.
Conclusion
The situation in Haiti is dire, and it is imperative that all parties involved work together to restore peace and security to the country. The Bishops’ Conference of Haiti’s plea for action and peace is a stark reminder of the devastating impact of violence on the lives of ordinary people.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the current situation in Haiti?
A: The country is experiencing widespread violence, with armed gangs fighting for dominance and area control, resulting in a severe security crisis.
Q: What is the Bishops’ Conference of Haiti urging the government to do?
A: The Bishops are urging the government to act with determination to re-establish security and guarantee the protection of citizens.
Q: What is the impact of the violence on the population?
A: The violence has resulted in the displacement of nearly 700,000 people, destroyed livelihoods, and deprived the populace of essential amenities.
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