Haiti's Gangs Gain Near-Total Control Over Capital, Pushing Nation to Brink of Collapse

In an alarming declaration, United Nations officials reported that criminal gangs have established "near-total control" over Port-au-Prince, Haiti's capital, amidst a surge in violence that threatens to destabilize the nation further. Ghada Fathy Waly, the executive director of the U.N. Office on Drugs and Crime, presented her findings to the U.N. Security Council, indicating that gangs have infiltrated areas that were previously considered safe, particularly in southern Haiti where gang-related activities have dramatically increased.

Miroslav Jenca, U.N. Assistant Secretary-General, emphasized that the growing dominance of gangs in the capital and surrounding regions is placing Haiti on the verge of disintegration. He cautioned that without proactive measures from the international community, the absence of a functioning state presence in Port-au-Prince could become a terrifying reality.

Since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021, gang influence has escalated, taking control of around 85% of the capital. The lack of a president has exacerbated the situation, leading to significant exploitation of political instability and weakness in security responses. A recent U.N. report pointed to the detrimental effects of competing political agendas and corruption within transitional governance structures, which have thwarted effective action against the gangs.

Additionally, as gangs extend their territorial control, they not only gain essential resources but also enhance their bargaining power, complicating the political landscape. The U.S. State Department previously issued a travel warning for Haiti due to the heightened risks of crime and civil unrest, further underlining the severity of the situation.