The U.S. State Department has issued a “Level 4: Do Not Travel” advisory for Haiti amid increasing violence and unrest.
At a Glance
- Haiti is under a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory due to kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and limited health care.
- Crimes involving firearms are common, and kidnappings often target U.S. citizens.
- The U.S. government has limited ability to assist its citizens in the country.
- Travelers are advised to have a contingency plan, avoid demonstrations, and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
“Do Not Travel” Advisory for Haiti
The U.S. State Department has issued a “Level 4: Do Not Travel” advisory for Haiti, citing increased incidents of kidnapping, armed robberies, and assaults. Reports suggest American citizens are particularly targeted, making travel extremely dangerous. The advisory was updated as recent unrest has intensified.
The advisory, which cautions against visiting Haiti due to “kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and limited health care,” emphasizes the seriousness of the situation.
Since March 2024, Haiti has been under a State of Emergency, exacerbating the country’s strained resources and security challenges. The country faces a myriad of issues, including a severe shortage of basic supplies like gasoline and medicine, with public services failing to meet the population’s needs.
Haiti Travel Advisory – Level 4: Do not travel to Haiti due to civil unrest and crime. There is currently widespread civil unrest and violent demonstrations. Right now, the U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens. https://t.co/VJBf2s9hlr pic.twitter.com/cIlrLvBkFj
— Travel – State Dept (@TravelGov) July 10, 2018
Rising Crime and Unrest
Crimes involving firearms, such as robbery, carjackings, and kidnappings for ransom, are common in Haiti. The State Department highlights that “kidnapping is widespread, and U.S. citizens have been victims and have been hurt or killed.”
Armed groups control 80% of Port-au-Prince, leading to the political and economic collapse that has resulted in widespread human rights violations. The airport in the capital is a focal point of armed activity, including armed robberies and carjackings. Protesters frequently set up roadblocks, further stoking the volatile environment.
Travel Precautions
The U.S. embassy in Haiti requires its staff to adhere to strict guidelines, including using official transportation to and from the airport. Officials are also subjected to a nightly curfew and restrictions on movement. The U.S. government has limited ability to assist its citizens due to the dire security situation and the limited resources of local police and first responders.
Travelers are advised to avoid crossing the border by land between Haiti and the Dominican Republic due to the threat of kidnapping and violence. Enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) and following the Department of State on social media can provide important updates and alerts. It’s crucial to have a contingency plan and review the Country Security Report on Haiti before traveling.
