Violent gangs have ‘near-total control’ of Haiti’s capital, UN says

The escalating violence in Haiti has reached a critical point, with criminal gangs gaining “near-total control” over the capital, according to senior U.N. officials. Ghada Fathy Waly, the executive director of the U.N. Office on Drugs and Crime, revealed that gangs now control an estimated 90% of Port-au-Prince and are expanding into previously peaceful areas. This includes southern Haiti, which has seen a sharp increase in gang-related incidents, and the east, where criminal groups are exploiting key land routes.

The situation has become so dire that U.N. Assistant Secretary-General Miroslav Jenca warned that the ongoing encirclement of Port-au-Prince by gangs is pushing Haiti “closer to the brink.” The strengthened foothold of gangs in the capital and beyond is a significant concern, as they continue to exert their influence and disrupt daily life for Haitian citizens.

Since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021, gangs have been able to increase their power significantly, now controlling even more of the capital than before. The absence of a functioning government has only exacerbated the situation, with political turmoil and a disorganized security response allowing gangs to thrive.

A recent U.N. report covering the period from October to February highlighted how gangs have taken advantage of the political instability in Haiti. Competing political ambitions and allegations of corruption within transitional governing bodies have hindered efforts to address the growing influence of gangs. This has allowed these criminal organizations to expand their territorial control, gaining more revenue and power in the process.

In response to the deteriorating security situation in Haiti, the U.S. State Department issued a travel advisory warning Americans against visiting the country due to the high risk of kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and limited healthcare. Additionally, in a move to combat the influence of gangs, the Trump administration designated two of Haiti’s most powerful gang networks, Viv Ansanm and Gran Grif, as foreign terrorist organizations and specially designated global terrorists.

The international community must take urgent action to prevent the total collapse of state presence in Haiti’s capital. Without intervention, the situation in Haiti could worsen, leading to further instability and suffering for the Haitian people. It is crucial for concerted efforts to be made to address the root causes of gang violence in Haiti and restore peace and security to the nation.