Port-au-Prince.- The European Union spokesperson, Peter Stano, has confirmed the evacuation of all diplomatic personnel from the organization stationed in Haiti, citing the alarming deterioration of the security situation in the country.
Following the departure of de facto Prime Minister Ariel Henry, Haiti has experienced a drastic escalation in security concerns, particularly in the capital, Port-au-Prince, where armed gangs have effectively taken control. The city’s landscape has undergone significant changes, with lawless zones multiplying, and some areas completely abandoned to these armed groups, who now dominate at least 80% of the capital. As a result, the population is compelled to limit their movements, with a pervasive sense of uncertainty and fear prevailing.
The once-common expression “until tomorrow, God willing” has morphed into a more ominous “until tomorrow, if the bandits want.” The prevailing insecurity has created an atmosphere where everyone anticipates their turn to become victims of kidnappings, robberies, rapes, or armed attacks.
The imposition of a state of emergency has extinguished nightlife in the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area. As night falls, the streets become desolate, and merchants hurriedly abandon their sidewalks-turned-public markets, where garbage mingles with remaining merchandise.
Residents rush home as the streets, once bustling with Haitians seeking sustenance, become inhospitable. A prevailing sentiment is that “seeking life destroys life.” Previously popular sociocultural activities, such as music, including rap, and sports like football and basketball, have lost their significance. The vibrant late-night food vendors, once part of a festive atmosphere, have also disappeared.
“Sociocultural activities are completely reduced. I see my friends leaving Haiti due to the violence. Despite the challenges of living normally, we must fight to prevent our beautiful country from disappearing,” remarks Sabin, reflecting the grim reality faced by many.
The territories surrendered to gangs continue to expand, with once-safe areas turning into epicenters of violence. This has led civilians, abandoned to their fate, to flee in search of safety. In a country ravaged by unemployment, exacerbated by insecurity forcing companies into bankruptcy, it has become easier to face the threat of a stray bullet than to find employment opportunities.