Part 11/16:
The failure of Haiti's political elite—who have often relied on corrupt practices—has created a vacuum that armed groups are increasingly filling. The recent history of failed uprising attempts and the collapse of law enforcement mechanisms has left Hatians at the mercy of gangs, who now exert significant control over both safety and administration in their regions.
While some political figures express cautious acceptance of gang presence in negotiations, many citizens view gang leaders as symbols of political and social disintegration. The dangers implicit in legitimizing these gangs lie in how it might reshape Haiti's governance structure and normalize violence as a means of power acquisition.