Do Not Travel Advisory for Haiti Due to Violent Crime and Civil Unrest

Haiti has been in a state of emergency since March 2024, exacerbated by ongoing political instability and a lack of effective governance following the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021. The country is plagued by rampant gang violence, with armed groups controlling significant portions of the capital, Port-au-Prince. The advisory specifies that crimes involving firearms, such as robbery, carjackings, and sexual assault, are prevalent, and kidnappings for ransom are common, with U.S. citizens among the victims. Protests and demonstrations often turn violent, further complicating the security situation. The U.S. government has limited capacity to assist citizens in Haiti, making travel to the region particularly perilous.

Current Situation in Haiti

• Gang Control: Approximately 80% of Port-au-Prince is under the control of gangs, leading to widespread violence and insecurity.
• Kidnapping Risks: Kidnappers may target individuals randomly or plan their attacks, often demanding substantial ransoms for release.
• Civil Unrest: Political protests are frequent and unpredictable, often resulting in violence and damage to infrastructure.

Travel Advisory Details

The travel advisory emphasizes that the U.S. government is constrained in its ability to provide assistance due to limited resources and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Haiti. Essential services such as electricity, gasoline, and medical supplies are frequently in short supply, further complicating any potential travel to the region. The advisory urges potential travelers to reconsider their plans and highlights the need for extreme caution if travel cannot be avoided.