Haiti’s Ministry of Defense has formally announced that the Haitian Armed Forces (FAd’H) will soon roll out a large-scale recruitment campaign across all 10 of the country’s administrative departments, in a move aligned with the institution’s 2026-2027 strategic plan to steadily expand and strengthen its military workforce.
Unveiled via an official press release on Thursday, May 21, 2026, the initiative aims to bring 1,000 new service members into the force, filling ranks across all tiers: enlisted soldiers, non-commissioned officers, and commissioned officers. Unlike targeted recruitment drives limited to specific regions, this campaign will open applications to eligible young men and women across the entire country, expanding access for interested candidates regardless of where they reside.
In addition to the longstanding mandatory eligibility checks covering physical fitness, cognitive aptitude, and medical clearance, the FAd’H has introduced a new set of alternative social profile criteria to vet candidates. This update is designed to embed core Haitian national values — including civic responsibility, patriotism, and collective mutual support — into the force’s membership.
Candidates only need to meet one of the 10 listed social criteria to qualify, rather than satisfying all requirements. The eligible criteria include: being an active blood donor registered with the National Transfusion Safety Program; demonstrating consistent eco-citizenship practices; participating in community-led projects that boost local public well-being; contributing to support networks for socially isolated patients; holding membership in a youth educational movement such as Scouting, MEJ, or Junior Achievement; working with mutual aid groups supporting vulnerable adults facing mental, cognitive, or social disabilities, as well as elderly adults; taking part in local or national reforestation initiatives; leading or participating in civic, artistic, or athletic training programs for underserved teens and young adults; serving as a recognized role model for positive masculinity within one’s community; and actively advancing a culture of peace among local residents.
Official documentation from social or institutional partners confirming a candidate’s participation in one of these activities will be required during the application and vetting process. The expanded criteria mark a notable shift in how the FAd’H evaluates candidates, prioritizing community commitment alongside traditional service qualifications as the force works to build a military that reflects and supports national social priorities.