Haiti’s transitional presidential council has approved an emergency wartime budget of 36 billion gourdes (approximately $275.86 million) as the country grapples with an unprecedented surge in gang violence and social collapse. This bold move was taken on April 14, 2025, as nearly all of Port-au-Prince and surrounding areas remain under the control of heavily armed gangs.
The budget prioritizes restoring law and order, with nearly 40% allocated to reinforce national police and military forces. Another 20% has been directed towards securing the border with the Dominican Republic to curb illegal arms trafficking and prevent the movement of gang members. Additionally, 16% of the budget is reserved for essential social programs in health, education, and humanitarian aid, targeting communities most affected by the violence.
The security situation in Haiti has continued to deteriorate over recent months. Armed groups have taken control of at least 85% of the capital and expanded into other towns, such as Mirebalais and Saut-d’Eau. In March, coordinated gang attacks on police stations and prisons led to the escape of over 500 inmates and left more than 60 people dead. Reports from the United Nations indicate that over 1,500 people were killed in the first quarter of 2025 alone, and more than 1 million have been displaced due to the violence.
Human rights violations have been rampant, with some gangs reportedly responsible for hundreds of cases of sexual violence. In one incident, over 1,000 such cases were attributed to a single gang during 2022. The ongoing breakdown in law enforcement and governance has allowed criminal groups to act with impunity.
Efforts to stabilize the nation have seen limited international support. The Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS), approved by the United Nations in October 2023 to assist Haitian police forces, currently has only around 430 personnel on the ground. Experts believe a force of at least 5,000 is required to begin turning the tide. Meanwhile, the United Nations and the United States have imposed targeted sanctions on four major gang leaders accused of severe human rights abuses.
On the political front, Leslie Voltaire has taken over leadership of the transitional council from Edgard Leblanc. However, three members of the council are now facing corruption allegations, raising concerns about internal credibility and capacity to govern. Despite the unrest, Haiti’s transitional government has pledged to pave the way for free and fair elections by the end of 2025, viewing it as a crucial step toward restoring long-term democratic stability.
The humanitarian situation remains dire. Over 700,000 Haitians are internally displaced, and access to basic services such as hospitals and schools is increasingly limited due to gang blockades and threats. Some communities have resorted to forming vigilante groups, raising alarms about mob justice and further instability.
Haiti’s emergency budget marks a critical turning point in the nation’s attempt to reclaim control from criminal organizations and rebuild trust in its institutions. Yet, the effectiveness of this plan will depend on rapid implementation, adequate security reinforcements, and consistent international assistance. As the crisis deepens, the people of Haiti continue to hope for peace, stability, and a return to normalcy.