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Haiti in Crisis: Organized Crime and Financial Institutions Under Scrutiny
Port-au-Prince, Haiti - March 11, 2023
In a shocking turn of events, Haiti has been plunged into chaos as gangs have taken control of major institutions in the capital city. The country’s Prime Minister, Ariel Henry, resigned on March 11 after weeks of violence and attacks by organized crime groups.
Ongoing Struggle with Gang Activity
The crisis is the latest chapter in Haiti’s ongoing struggle with gang activity, which has seen a significant increase in recent years. According to the United Nations, Haiti’s homicide rate has more than doubled since 2022, reaching an alarming 40.9 per 100,000 inhabitants.
Accusations of Political-Criminal Relations
Gangs have been accused of being proxies and political tools, rather than fully autonomous groups. The crisis highlights the prevalence of political-criminal relations in the exercise of power and the key role played by violent brokers.
Attacks on Strategic Institutions
The attacks, which began on February 29, have targeted strategic institutions including:
- Two prisons
- A dozen police stations
- The international airport
- The main port terminal
Over 15,000 people have been displaced, and humanitarian conditions are deteriorating rapidly.
Gangs’ Financial Autonomy
The gangs’ financial autonomy has increased through drug trafficking, extortion, and kidnapping. However, this does not mean they are free from political allegiances and negotiations. Research suggests that each gang remains the master of its turf, and there is no evidence to suggest a lasting peace between them.
Strategy of Maximum Pressure
Instead, the gangs appear to be pursuing a strategy of maximum pressure, with attacks interspersed with lulls. This may be the result of relationships binding them to their political bosses, who are using violence to achieve political ends.
Concerns about Influence on Financial Institutions
The crisis has sparked concerns about the influence of organized crime on Haiti’s financial institutions and the potential for international sanctions to disrupt the links between the political and criminal worlds.
Urgent Need for Dialogue
As the country navigates its transition from one government to another, there is an urgent need for trusting dialogue among Haitian actors, including civil society, and the international community. Without this, it is likely that the strategy of chaos will continue to prevail.