•  
  •  
 

Abstract

This study is an attempt to explain the proliferation of criminal gangs in Haiti and the current surge of violence in the country. It basically argues that this surge of violence is primarily the product of a historically exploitative and discriminatory social order, which can be traced back to the foundation period of Haiti and which has been exacerbated by the systematic and aggressive implementation of neoliberal policies in the country since the 1980s. These neoliberal policies, and the exploitative and discriminatory social order that they entail, have over time contributed to increase the size and the vulnerability level of Haiti’s urban lower class, particularly in the capital city Port-au-Prince, from which predatory political and business elites, connected to transnational elites, have recruited disadvantaged or underprivileged Haitians for gang-related activities aiming at promoting their narrow political and business interests. Gradually, the criminal gangs have become stronger, more autonomous, and more united. Hence the current surge of violence in the country, predominantly in Port-au-Prince metropolitan area. The study concludes that the neoliberal trend has contributed not only to economically fail Haiti, but also to the political and security crises faced by the country. It calls upon national and international stakeholders to depart from the neoliberal philosophy and promote, once for all, the long-term socioeconomic development of Haiti which involves, inter alia, the promotion of a sustainable agricultural sector and an inclusive educational system adapted to the real development needs of the country.

Download

Share

COinS