Haiti
Freedom at a Glance
Global Freedom
22 / 100
Not Free
Worsening breakdowns of the Haitian electoral system in recent years have led to a series of expired mandates and constitutional impasses, leaving citizens without proper political representation. The government’s ability to function was further impacted by the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse; Prime Minister Ariel Henry, whom Moïse appointed before his death, rules by decree and has not made progress in preparing new elections. Rampant corruption and violence by armed criminal groups undermine basic services and contribute to pervasive physical insecurity.
Research & Recommendations
Haiti
Not Free
22
100
| PR Political Rights | 5 40 |
| CL Civil Liberties | 17 60 |
Last Year's Score & Status
24
100
Not Free
A country or territory’s Freedom in the World status depends on its aggregate Political Rights score, on a scale of 0–40, and its aggregate Civil Liberties score, on a scale of 0–60.
See the methodology.
Overview
Worsening breakdowns of the Haitian electoral system over the past decade have led to a series of expired mandates and constitutional impasses, leaving citizens without proper political representation. The government’s ability to function was further damaged by the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse and the 2024 resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry following a wave of violence by armed criminal groups. A transitional presidential council was installed later in 2024 with international support, and it named a prime minister, but the judiciary and law enforcement agencies continue to lack the resources, independence, and integrity to uphold the rule of law.
Freedom in the World 2026 Policy Recommendations
Strengthen democratic coordination and collective action in a contested global order
Democratic resilience will increasingly depend on stronger coordination among countries that share a commitment to freedom, the rule of law, and accountable governance.
Reimagine international democracy assistance to help reverse the global decline in freedom
International support for democratic institutions, civil society, and independent media has been associated with modest but meaningful improvements in democratic governance, and it is far less costly than the military outlays necessitated by rising authoritarian aggression.
Prioritize engagement with younger generations in the digital spaces where civic identity is now formed
Young people are increasingly dissatisfied with democracy—not because they reject its principles, but because they see institutions failing to deliver on them. Programmatic work should create clear pathways for meaningful political participation, from voting and policy engagement to community organizing and public leadership, so that young people can translate their expectations into agency.
News and Updates
Freedom House Perspectives
News Releases & Media Coverage
Country Facts
Basic Facts
Freedom in the World Score
22
/ 100
Not Free
Population: 11,580,000
Internet Facts
Status
Not Tracked
Election Facts
Status
Not Tracked
Transnational Repression
Status
Not Tracked
