Haitian justice facing impunity and monopolies

Judicial System in Crisis

The Haitian judicial system suffers from deep dysfunction. Courts, particularly in Port-au-Prince, are regularly disrupted by attacks and insecurity caused by gangs. Prison overcrowding is severe with occupancy rates often exceeding 300% and over 80% of detainees held without trial.

Limited Investigations and Prosecutions

Investigations conducted by the Central Financial Intelligence Unit (UCREF) and the Anti-Corruption Unit (ULCC), since their creation, have resulted in very few effective convictions. Notable cases remain stalled or are relaunched after procedural cancellations.

Central Role in the Economy and Gangs

Justice plays a direct role on several fronts: investigations into anti-competitive practices, tracing illicit financial flows, accountability of political and economic sponsors, protection of critical infrastructure. Without independent and effective justice, impunity fuels violence and economic predation.