Canada is expanding its evacuation efforts from Haiti to include Canadian permanent residents and their foreign relatives. This decision comes as the situation in Haiti continues to deteriorate, with widespread violence fueled by gangs. The Canadian government has arranged for a charter flight for Canadians who are willing to pay a market rate to fly between the Dominican Republic and Montreal. Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly had previously announced that Canada was airlifting people with valid Canadian passports from Haiti to the Dominican Republic.
Since the initial announcement, Global Affairs Canada has seen an increase in the number of Canadians seeking help to leave Haiti. The country has been facing a political and humanitarian crisis since mid-2021, with gangs perpetrating violence and limiting access to essential resources. Recent developments, including the release of prisoners by gangs in response to progress towards a foreign military intervention, have further exacerbated the situation. As of a week ago, 3,000 individuals with a connection to Canada had registered their presence in Haiti, with only 300 requesting assistance to leave. However, this number has since grown as the violence continues to escalate.
The decision to expand evacuation efforts to include Canadian permanent residents and their foreign relatives highlights the urgency of the situation in Haiti. The government is working to ensure the safety of its citizens and those with ties to Canada as violence and chaos grip the country. By arranging charter flights for those willing to pay, Canada is providing an option for individuals to leave the dangerous situation in Haiti and return to Canada or seek refuge elsewhere. The ongoing crisis in Haiti has prompted an increased response from the Canadian government to assist those in need.
The political and humanitarian crisis in Haiti, coupled with the actions of violent gangs, has created a volatile and dangerous environment for residents and foreign nationals alike. The widespread violence and limited access to essential resources have made it difficult for individuals to remain in the country safely. Canada’s evacuation efforts are a response to the escalating situation in Haiti and the need to provide assistance to those who wish to leave. By prioritizing the safety of its citizens and permanent residents, Canada is taking proactive steps to address the growing crisis in Haiti.
As tensions in Haiti continue to rise, the situation on the ground remains unstable and dangerous. The decision to expand evacuation efforts to include Canadian permanent residents and their foreign relatives underscores the severity of the crisis and the need for immediate action. By offering charter flights for those willing to pay, Canada is providing a lifeline for individuals seeking to escape the violence and chaos in Haiti. The government’s response to the crisis reflects its commitment to the safety and well-being of its citizens and those with ties to Canada in the face of a dire situation.
