INDDESC launches initiative to support victims of gang violence in Haiti

The National Institute for the Defense of Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (INDDESC) has announced the launch of a new initiative to document violations and support victims of armed insecurity in Haiti. Known as the Initiative for Memory, Justice, and Compensation for Victims of Armed Gang Insecurity in Haiti (IMJIVIAH), the project is scheduled to run from 2026 to 2027 with an initial launch budget of $140,000.

The program aims to address the lack of a national mechanism to recognize and assist those affected by gang-related violence. Key objectives for the first twelve months include documenting up to 5,000 victims, validating 3,000 files, providing legal assistance to 1,000 victims, and preparing 200 cases for potential legal recourse. The initiative will initially focus on the West and Artibonite regions.

To facilitate this, INDDESC plans to implement a secure digital platform for collecting testimonies and evidence, such as photos and videos. The project also includes the creation of a National Registry of Victims to centralize information regarding homicides, kidnappings, sexual violence, forced displacements, and property destruction.