PORT-AU-PRINCE — Haiti has suffered a devastating loss of at least 1,247 lives and 710 injuries between July 1 and September 30, 2025. These incidents, stemming from violence involving gangs, self-defense groups, and security forces operations, are detailed in the quarterly human rights report published by the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) and the Human Rights Service (HRS).
The report indicates that of all victims, 83% were men, 14% women, and 3% children. Causes of death include 30% from gang attacks, 61% from security force operations (including summary executions, drone strikes, and government-linked actions), and 9% from self-defense groups or unorganized citizens involved in the ‘Bwa Kalé’ movement.
Of all deaths and injuries, 30% resulted from gang attacks, 61% from security force operations (including summary executions, drone strikes, and government-linked actions), and 9% from actions by self-defense groups or unorganized citizens involved in the ‘Bwa Kalé’ movement.
Incidents were concentrated in Port-au-Prince (76%), Artibonite (17%), and the Central department (5%).
At least 145 people were kidnapped: 46% in Artibonite, 45% in Port-au-Prince, and 8% in the Central department.
Sexual Violence and Child Exploitation
Armed gangs committed sexual violence against at least 400 survivors—mostly women and girls—in Port-au-Prince, Artibonite, and Center.
Furthermore, gangs continued to perpetrate child trafficking and exploitation, forcing minors into criminal activities. The use of sexual violence, forced recruitment, and exploitation is a tactic aimed at controlling and intimidating communities, the report emphasizes.
Among other findings, the report lists 39 civilian casualties from drone strikes and 79 alleged extrajudicial killings, mostly associated with Haitian National Police officers and the Miragoâne commissioner. Without intervention, this trend could escalate, leading to greater instability and increasing community distrust in law enforcement. The unchecked continuation of such practices might spark widespread unrest, further complicating efforts for peace and justice in the region. Policymakers must act swiftly to prevent a potential crisis that may have far-reaching implications for the country’s future.
Eight security force members were killed and 17 were wounded in operations.
UN Recommendations
BINUH makes several recommendations to the Haitian government, including:
On the judicial front, BINUH recommends fully operationalizing specialized units to prosecute mass crimes, including sexual violence and financial offenses.
With international support, the report advises accelerating police verification processes and ensuring accountability for officers involved in human rights violations.
Regarding minors, BINUH urges the swift establishment—also with international support—of programs for prevention, disengagement, and reintegration for young people enrolled in gangs.
On disarmament, BINUH advises the reactivation of a national structure to coordinate disarmament, demobilization, reintegration, and efforts to reduce community violence.
Finally, the government is urged to strengthen protection mechanisms for the most vulnerable, in close collaboration with humanitarian partners.
The report concludes that violence and human rights abuses persist, urging urgent national and international action to address the crisis and protect at-risk populations.
