AMBREY INSIGHT > HAITI’S DETERIORATING SECURITY SITUATION AHEAD OF THE DECEMBER ELECTIONS
Date issued: 27 August 2026
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“It is likely that the security situation in Haiti will deteriorate further in the run-up to the elections. Merchant vessels will therefore continue to face a challenging operational environment and are advised to commission dynamic voyage risk assessments and liaise with trusted security providers.”
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
- Security continues to deteriorate, with gang violence expanding beyond Port-au-Prince ahead of the 13 December elections.
- Maritime and energy infrastructure remains vulnerable, with recent gang-related violence damaging storage tanks at the Verreaux Oil Terminal and disrupting operations.
- Gang control of coastal areas and key transport routes is increasing their ability to disrupt the movement of fuel, food, and facilitate the flow of weapons and narcotics.
- International support is strengthening Haitian security capabilities, but authorities remain critically underfunded, under-resourced and understaffed.
SITUATION
On 27 July, Haiti’s Provisional Electoral Council scheduled the first round of presidential, legislative and local elections, together with a constitutional referendum, for 13 December. Run-off elections and further local voting are scheduled for 21 February 2027, marking Haiti’s first national elections since 2016…