(2023-03) Quarterly Report on the Human Rights Situation in Haiti (January-March 2023)
Summary — This quarterly report details the human rights situation in Haiti from January to March 2023, highlighting a significant increase in armed violence, kidnappings, and sexual violence. Gang activities expanded, affecting previously safe areas and leading to widespread displacement and socioeconomic disruption. The report also addresses issues within the justice system and the rise of self-defense groups.
Key Findings
- Victims of killings, injuries, and kidnappings increased by 28% (1,634 cases) compared to the previous quarter.
- Gang violence expanded into previously safe areas of Port-au-Prince (Kenscoff, Pétion Ville) and the Artibonite department.
- Sexual violence continued to be used as a weapon by gangs to terrorize and harm the population, especially women and girls.
- 'Vigilance brigades' and mob lynching against alleged gang members and criminals multiplied across the capital, resulting in at least 75 deaths.
- The justice sector remained dysfunctional with persistent structural challenges, including political interference, corruption, and high pre-trial detention rates (83%).
Full Description
The report covers the human rights situation in Haiti during the first quarter of 2023, documenting a 28% increase in victims of killings, injuries, and kidnappings compared to the previous quarter, totaling 1,634 cases. Armed violence intensified and spread from Port-au-Prince to the Artibonite department, with gangs using sexual violence as a weapon and snipers to terrorize populations. The rise of 'vigilance brigades' and mob lynching against alleged criminals also resulted in numerous deaths. Kidnappings remained a major source of gang revenue, targeting various professionals including teachers and healthcare workers.
The socioeconomic impact included surging inflation, illegal taxes imposed by gangs on businesses, and the closure of schools and healthcare facilities due to insecurity. The justice sector remained dysfunctional, marked by political interference, corruption, and a high rate of pre-trial detention. International sanctions were imposed on 25 individuals linked to corruption and gang support. The report also highlights forced displacement, with over 127,000 people displaced in the capital, and mass expulsions of Haitian migrants from neighboring countries. Recommendations include international support for strengthening the Haitian National Police and judicial reform.