US Mandates Evacuation of Government Personnel from Haiti, Cites Heightened Kidnapping Danger

The State Department has issued a “do not travel” advisory for Haiti and ordered U.S. government personnel to leave the country due to the escalating gang violence and civil unrest.

The Biden administration has recently updated its advisory, directing all nonemergency government personnel, including those at the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince, to immediately evacuate Haiti. The decision was made due to the high risk of kidnapping, with the State Department noting that kidnappers may employ sophisticated planning or seize opportunity, even targeting convoys. Kidnapping cases often involve ransom negotiations, and victims, including U.S. citizens, have suffered physical harm. Families have paid significant amounts of money to secure the release of their loved ones.

In light of the deteriorating security situation, the U.S. government is advising its employees to constantly monitor local news and depart when it is safe to do so.

Haiti currently faces a humanitarian and security crisis, with violent crime on the rise. Gangs have gained control of large portions of Port-au-Prince and have even recruited children as young as 8 years old. This dire situation has led to more than 165,000 Haitians fleeing their homes as of June, seeking refuge in temporary shelters, according to the United Nations migration agency.

Protests and mob violence are also intensifying, and the State Department acknowledges its limited ability to protect government employees. Local police forces lack the necessary resources to effectively respond to crimes and emergencies.

The State Department has advised departing government personnel to avoid using public transportation, visiting banks, driving at night, or traveling without proper approval and security measures in place.