Haiti's escalating security crisis is ensnaring children in criminal gangs. A 16-year-old boy, identified as Joseph, recounts his harrowing experience of being lured into gang activity with promises of money and a sense of importance, only to face death threats when he refused to fight police.
Growing up in a neighborhood dominated by gangs, Joseph witnessed armed men with perceived power and wealth. With limited opportunities and little hope, he was persuaded to join a gang by a friend. His initial tasks involved monitoring police movements, but this quickly escalated to being given a firearm and ordered to confront law enforcement. When Joseph expressed fear and a desire to leave, the gang leader responded with brutal violence, breaking his hand and threatening his life.
Despite his terror, Joseph managed to escape and sought help from a community organization in September 2024. He is now receiving counseling and support to cope with his ordeal. This situation highlights the urgent need for more robust protection measures for children in gang-affected communities, as detailed in a recent UN report.