UNITED NATIONS (CMC)—The United Nations on Monday said it is “deeply alarmed” at the surge in gender-based violence in Haiti over the past year, where there were an estimated reports of 8,000 cases, a 25 per cent increase over the previous year.

Stéphane Dujarric, the spokesperson for the secretary-general, Antonio Guterres, told the daily news briefing that due to underreporting, this number reflects only a fraction of the actual number of cases.

“Survivors also report that incidents frequently occur in overcrowded displacement sites. Access to emergency care remains extremely limited. Only 30 per cent of survivors were able to receive assistance within 72 hours, increasing the risk of sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancies,” Dujarric told reporters, adding that underfunding means survivors can’t access legal assistance, child protection services and safe shelter.

“This year, we and our partners are seeking US$24 million to prevent and respond to gender-based violence, targeting 1.5 million people with medical, psychological and other forms of support,” Dujarric said.

Meanwhile, in overcrowded displacement camps in Port-au-Prince, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) said it is monitoring water quality to prevent cholera and protect lives.

It said through simulations and practical exercises, displaced families are strengthening their capacity to maintain safe water practices, with the support of the European Union’s Civil Protection & Humanitarian Aid Delegation in Haiti.

Dujarric said with regards to Cuba, the United Nations is continuing to monitor the situation in the country and is working with the Cuban government to provide more support, including food, water and sanitation, and healthcare.

“We are concerned about the growing fuel shortages and their impact on people. This includes disruptions to the delivery of clean water, medical care, food and other critical aid in parts of Cuba hit hard by Hurricane Melissa last October. Our humanitarian colleagues note that there are also concerns that the fuel scarcity could have implications on the operation of airports,” Dujarric said.

The UN spokesman said that last November, the UN team in Cuba launched a plan of action to support the national response in the wake of Hurricane Melissa, which impacted more than two million people.

“We remain committed to supporting recovery efforts led by the authorities and to helping families recover. The plan of action, which seeks US$74 million, is currently only 23 per cent funded. We urgently call for more funding to ensure aid reaches those who need it,” Dujarric added.