Haiti: Anti-corruption demonstrations through November 21 /update 1

Event

Several civil society organizations and political parties have called for nationwide anti-corruption demonstrations to take place from Friday, November 16, through November 21, with the largest expected on Sunday, November 18, in the capital Port-au-Prince. A heightened security presence and transportation disruptions are likely in the vicinity of any gathering. Clashes between demonstrators and police are likely.

Context

The November 18 demonstrations will coincide with commemorations for the anniversary of the 1803 Battle of Vertières, the last major battle in the Second War of Haitian Independence, which will be attended by public officials. On November 18, 2017, large demonstrations, marred by clashes between protesters and security forces, took place amid a controversial military march, the first since the demobilization of the Haitian military in 1995.

Numerous demonstrations have been staged in October and November to call for greater government transparency after several public officials, including President Jovenel Moïse, were implicated in a scandal related to the alleged misuse of PetroCaribe funds.

Advice

Individuals in Haiti are advised to be prepared to shelter in place in the event of major unrest (e.g. stockpile supplies of preserved foods and fresh water), closely monitor the situation, and strictly avoid all protests.