Haiti
Freedom at a Glance
Global Freedom
24 / 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
24
100
| PR Political Rights | 6 40 |
| CL Civil Liberties | 18 60 |
Last Year's Score & Status
30
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 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, ruled by decree until April 2024, when he resigned following a wave of violence from armed groups. A new presidential transitional council has been installed and has named a prime minister, but the judiciary and law enforcement agencies continue to lack the resources, independence, and integrity to uphold due process and the rule of law.
Freedom in the World 2025 Policy Recommendations
Prioritize strengthening the rule of law and delivering economic dividends in the aftermath of political transitions
In countries where democratic forces have come to power after periods of antidemocratic rule, the new governments should pursue an agenda that protects and expands freedoms even as it delivers tangible economic and social benefits to citizens.
In countries emerging from war or the collapse of authoritarian regimes, focus on safety, reconciliation, reform
These countries must act swiftly to release all political prisoners, build or revitalize democratic institutions, reform police and other security forces, organize and hold competitive multiparty elections, and ensure accountability for past human rights violations.
Bolster checks and balances to mitigate the threat of democratic backsliding
In countries where there has been significant erosion of political rights and civil liberties, policymakers, legislators, jurists, civic activists, and donor communities should work to strengthen institutional guardrails and norms that serve to constrain elected leaders with antidemocratic or illiberal aims.
News and Updates
Freedom House Perspectives
News Releases & Media Coverage
Country Facts
Basic Facts
Freedom in the World Score
24
/ 100
Not Free
Population: 11,580,000
Internet Facts
Status
Not Tracked
Election Facts
Status
Not Tracked
Transnational Repression
Status
Not Tracked
