The Open Society Foundations, a major human rights funder founded by George Soros, has just announced $20 million funding for Haitian civil society. 

Haiti is in the grip of a power struggle between armed militias and a humanitarian crisis plunging its population into poverty. Armed gangs attacked the international airport and prevented prime minister Ariel Henry from returning after he travelled to Kenya. They continue to attack police forces and control almost 90 per cent of the capital city, Port-au-Prince.

More than 1,500 people have been killed in the first three months of this year, with half the population requiring humanitarian aid this year.  

The funding comes as the head of the UN’s children agency warns of a ‘catastrophic’ crisis unfolding as gang violence impedes aid deliver.

Catherine Russell told a meeting of the UN Security Council that essential services have all but collapsed in many areas.

Eighteen major health institutions unable to function in the capital. The largest public hospital and maternity care services are reportedly on the brink of collapsing. 

The current situation is Haiti’s gravest crisis since the devastating 2010 earthquake. Hundreds of thousands have been displaced, and hospitals, schools, banks and other critical institutions continue to be targets of violence. 

OSF’s funding is part of a campaign founded by the Kellogg Foundations and international nonprofit Pockets of Hope with the aim of bringing philanthropic support for community led programmes within education, health and economic security.  

Open Society’s total contribution to Haiti, since 1995, totals at $180 million. 

‘Haiti is in urgent need of support, and philanthropic organisations need to step up and offer meaningful assistance, said Alex Soros, chair of the Open Society Foundations. 

‘By combining our resources with the W K Kellogg Foundation, we can amplify our impact and provide vital support to Haitian civil society organisations working tirelessly to address these challenges,’ he added. 

Shafi Musaddique is the news editor at Alliance Magazine.