economic contraction, and widespread humanitarian needs. With a population of roughly 11.9 million, the country struggles with insecurity, weak governance, and chronic poverty. Limited improvements are expected in 2026, contingent on security stabilization and planned elections.
Introduction
Haiti occupies the western third of Hispaniola and is the first nation in the world founded by formerly enslaved people after its 1804 independence. Its modern challenges stem from historical exploitation, political upheaval, natural disasters, and entrenched poverty.
Geography
- Located in the Caribbean, west of the Dominican Republic.
- Area: 27,750 sq km.
- Terrain includes mountains, coastal plains, and small offshore islands such as Gonâve and Tortuga.
People and Society
- Population (2025 est.): 11.9 million.
- Languages: Haitian Creole and French.
- Majority of the population descends from enslaved Africans.
- High exposure to natural hazards; 5.4 million struggle with food insecurity.
- Life expectancy and human capital indicators remain low, with stalled improvements.
Government
- Government type: Republic, operating under extra‑constitutional conditions since the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse.
- Prime Minister Ariel Henry faced escalating gang pressure and pledged resignation in 2024.
- Elections were postponed to August 2025, contributing to instability.
Population
- 2025 estimate: 11,898,812.
- Urban population: approx. 60% (2024).
- Fertility rate: 2.66 (2023).
Economy
- GDP (2024–2025): approx. $25.22B.
- Real GDP contracted 2.7% in 2025, marking the seventh consecutive year of decline.
- Inflation averaged 28.3% in 2025.
- Nearly 49% of Haitians live on less than $3/day (2021 PPP).
- Economic decline driven by gang violence, political instability, and reduced government revenue.
Energy
- Haiti has limited domestic energy production and relies heavily on imported petroleum products.
- Energy infrastructure remains vulnerable to instability and natural disasters. (General profile inferred from World Factbook structure; specific 2025 energy data not provided.)
Communications
- Internet penetration remains low (approx. 39% in 2019).
- Telecommunications infrastructure is strained by insecurity and limited investment.
Transportation
- Main port and airport located in Port‑au‑Prince, though gang control has disrupted access.
- Road networks are limited and often unsafe due to violence and poor maintenance.
Military and Security
- Haiti lacks a large standing military; security relies on the Haitian National Police, which is overstretched.
- Gang violence surged in 2024–2025, with 5,500 killed and 2,600 injured in 2025.
- International partners support a UN‑backed gang‑suppression force.
Travel Advice (2025)
- Extreme caution advised due to widespread gang violence, kidnappings, and infrastructure collapse.
- Airport closures and roadblocks are common.
- Humanitarian conditions remain severe. (Based on security conditions described in sources.)
Expected Trends for 2026
- Modest GDP growth possible if security improves and elections occur as planned in late 2026.
- Continued humanitarian needs due to displacement and food insecurity.
- International security assistance likely to expand.
- Long‑term recovery depends on governance reforms and stabilization of Port‑au‑Prince.
