Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The United Nations human rights office (OHCHR) has welcomed the establishment of two specialized judicial units in Haiti, calling the initiative a key step toward addressing widespread impunity in the country. Launched by the Haitian government at the end of May, the units are tasked with handling complex cases of corruption, including illegal arms trade and money laundering.
Haiti is grappling with political instability, systemic corruption, and pervasive gang violence. Courts have been attacked, vandalized, and occupied by gangs, while magistrates and justice officials reportedly face attacks and death threats. The judicial units are also expected to address serious human rights violations by gangs, such as killings, kidnappings, sexual violence, and child trafficking.
According to OHCHR, gang-related violence has caused at least 2,310 deaths, 1,106 injuries, and 99 kidnappings so far this year. Additionally, 699 victims of sexual violence—mainly women and young girls—have been identified, alongside numerous trafficked children. The rights office emphasized that these specialized units must function independently, impartially, and competently to restore public confidence in the justice system. It also called for measures to protect judges and ensure court security.
The units aim to foster accountability and provide victims with access to justice and reparations. They may also bolster the rule of law, combat corruption, and begin to rebuild trust in Haiti's struggling judicial system. UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk urged Haitian authorities to promptly implement the units in line with international human rights standards and with support from the international community.