Chronic Insecurity: Gangs as a Structural Threat to the Haitian State

Across the country, insecurity has become a permanent feature of daily life, deeply affecting social stability and governance. Armed gangs continue to expand their influence in several urban and peri-urban areas, exerting control over neighborhoods, major roads, and economic corridors.

Their presence disrupts civilian life, forcing residents to live under constant fear, restrict movement, and in many cases flee their homes.Beyond the human toll, this situation represents a serious threat to the authority of the State.

Where gangs dominate, public institutions retreat. Basic services collapse, schools shut their doors, hospitals become inaccessible, and local economies grind to a halt. The rule of law is gradually replaced by coercion and informal power structures.

The persistence of this insecurity highlights the lack of effective, long-term responses. As frustration and distrust grow among the population, the State’s legitimacy continues to erode.

Without decisive action to restore security and protect civilians, chronic violence will keep undermining Haiti’s social fabric and weakening the foundations of the nation.