Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
Corruption in Haiti takes many forms, including money laundering, illicit trafficking, financing of armed groups, and political and business collusion with gangs, according to a UN Secretary-General report. These activities contribute to widespread impunity and organized crime.
In response, 60 students and young civil society leaders were selected from 180 applicants for the first Anti-Corruption Summer School, organized by Haiti's Anti-Corruption Unit (ULCC) with support from the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). Participants engaged in lectures, interactive workshops, and practical exercises focused on identifying, preventing, and reporting corruption.
Training included confronting ethical dilemmas using real-life scenarios and practicing complaint filing through the ULCC's anti-corruption hotline. This provided a hands-on understanding of the official reporting process.
Participant Adamson Junior Lavéus said the training deepened his understanding of corruption's various forms and highlighted the importance of civic education in empowering society with moral values.
UNODC's anti-corruption adviser in Haiti, Adrian Banu, described the Summer School as a long-term investment in the country's youth, who make up more than half the population. He noted that the full impact may take up to two decades but could bring significant societal change.
Due to strong interest, a second Summer School is planned, with hundreds of applications received within days. The initiative is part of a broader prevention strategy, which has also established around 50 integrity clubs in schools across Haiti with UNODC support.