World Vision calls on all parties to allow free and unimpeded humanitarian access

As the political unrest in Haiti continues to escalate, World Vision is concerned that an already existing humanitarian crisis may be made far worse in the coming days and weeks.

"The current situation is critical and highlights an ongoing, deep-seated crisis," says Corina Villacorta, the Latin America and Caribbean region's vice-president for World Vision.

World Vision provides humanitarian and development support to 42,000 children and their families in three areas of Haiti, two of which are now under the control of armed insurgents opposed to the rule of President Jean-Bertrand Aristide.

Last week, World Vision reduced operations in the Central Plateau region, northeast of the capital city of Port-au-Prince, after rebels took control of the city of Hinche; 23 non-local staff were evacuated.

Plans by World Vision to conduct a humanitarian needs assessment in the Central Plateau region and the North have now been put on hold - until at least later in the week - after the armed rebels seized control of Haiti's second-largest city, Cap Haitien, on the weekend.

World Vision commends Denis Coderre, minister responsible for the Francophonie, and the Canadian government for its role in trying to bring a peaceful, political resolution to the crisis. Canada and the international community should continue to work with all parties to find a durable solution that protects the rights of children and all Haitians, and provides hope for a better future. In the meantime, it is essential that food, medicine and other essential supplies be allowed to reach those in need.

If a solution is not reached soon, and food and other essential supplies cannot be delivered to poor rural communities, Villacorta says it will have "a devastating impact on the already existing humanitarian crisis." If the supply lines can be kept open, World Vision is well positioned to respond with food and medical supplies warehoused in the country, and distribution networks already in place.

World Vision's priorities are to continue its current programs to meet the needs of an already suffering people; prepare to respond to emergency needs that the political crisis will trigger if left unchecked, and; the safety of its 300 Haitian and eight expatriate staff.

World Vision is a Christian humanitarian relief and development organization active in more than 90 countries around the world, providing help to more than 85 million people each year.