标签： Haiti

In a series of recent developments in Haiti, significant events across sports, international policy, and leadership have captured national attention. On October 18, 2025, the U-17 Grenadiers football team faced an unexpected setback as striker Djuny Junior Théodore abruptly left their Spanish training camp ahead of the U-17 World Cup in Qatar. Théodore cited a promised contract from his uncle as the reason for his departure, vowing to continue his football career. The Haitian Football Federation (FHF) has yet to issue an official statement, but a complaint has reportedly been filed with Barcelona police. If confirmed as a withdrawal, this could lead to disciplinary or financial repercussions under FIFA regulations. Meanwhile, the United Nations Security Council unanimously adopted Resolution 2794, extending sanctions on individuals and entities threatening Haiti’s peace and security until 2026. These measures include arms embargoes, asset freezes, and travel bans. In the realm of sports, the University of Technology of Haiti (UNITECH) triumphed over the American University of Modern Sciences of Haiti (UNASMOH) in a thrilling 61-59 basketball match during the Inter-university Tournament for Peace. Gabriel Marc Roosevelt was named MVP for the second consecutive time, scoring 16 points. On the leadership front, significant appointments were made across various institutions. Angeline Cherfils was installed as the new head of the National Office of Crafts (ONART), bringing her expertise in education and activism to the role. Additionally, Lyonel Labady returned as Administrative Director of the Office of the Secretary of State for the Integration of People with Disabilities (BSEIPH), aiming to enhance operational efficiency and inclusive governance. These developments underscore Haiti’s ongoing efforts to address challenges and foster progress across multiple sectors.

The Embassy of Haiti in France, in collaboration with the Consulate General of Haiti in Paris, proudly announced the recognition of four Haitian artists by the esteemed Arts-Sciences-Lettres Academic Society. The distinguished honorees were celebrated during a grand ceremony at the Intercontinental Hotel in Paris, attended by over 800 guests. The event highlighted the significant contributions of these individuals to the arts and culture, both in Haiti and abroad. The honorees include Caymitte Filipo Woodly, a sculptor awarded the Silver Medal; Kecita Clénard, a singer also receiving the Silver Medal; Wilberte Dessalines, a painter and visual artist honored with the Silver Medal; and Grégoire Chéry, a musician and singer awarded the Pewter Medal. The Haitian Diplomatic Mission expressed its gratitude to the Arts-Sciences-Lettres Academic Society for their partnership and commitment to recognizing Haitian talent. This initiative aims to promote Haitian culture in France and reshape the narrative about Haiti. Founded in 1915 by René Flament, the Arts-Sciences-Lettres Academic Society is dedicated to honoring exceptional contributions in art, science, and literature, fostering French culture globally through its annual awards and extensive network.

During the 81st General Assembly of the Inter-American Press Association (IAPA) held in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, on October 19, 2025, the organization unveiled its annual report, shedding light on the dire situation faced by journalists in Haiti. The report emphasized that many Haitian journalists live in constant fear of harassment, physical attacks, or even death. This alarming trend has been exacerbated by intensified repressive campaigns and death threats, forcing some journalists to rely on armed protection or armored vehicles for their safety. While no journalists were killed in 2025, numerous individuals faced imminent threats, compelling them to flee to safer regions. Entire editorial teams have abandoned their posts under duress, leaving their offices ransacked and equipment destroyed. A prominent example is Joseph Guyler C. Delva, Secretary General of SOS Journalists and Vice President of the IAPA Committee for Freedom of the Press and Information, who suspended his professional activities in August due to relentless harassment. In September, he was forced to leave Haiti following death threats. In Mirebalais, armed gangs seized control of a radio station, renaming it ‘Taliban FM.’ The IAPA also criticized the Haitian government for selectively restricting journalists’ access and using state advertising as leverage against critical media, fostering self-censorship and perpetuating a climate of fear. One notable case is Radio Mega, a leading station deliberately targeted and boycotted by high-ranking authorities. The organization lamented that this dangerous environment is further aggravated by Haiti’s ongoing socio-political and economic crisis.

The Embassy of Haiti in Vietnam has issued a critical alert to Haitian citizens, both domestically and abroad, regarding a surge in dubious job opportunities advertised in the Southeast Asian region. While some offers may appear genuine, the Embassy has uncovered alarming trends through its investigations and field reports. These include illegal and exploitative working conditions, involvement in human and labor trafficking networks, forced labor practices, and even suspected cases of organ trafficking. To safeguard its citizens, the Embassy strongly advises individuals to verify the legitimacy of job offers, recruiting agencies, and proposed living conditions before committing to any employment contracts abroad. Haitian nationals are urged to contact the Embassy directly for assistance. The Embassy can be reached via email at amb.vietnam@diplomatie.ht or by phone at 024 7304 5599. Its office, located at D5A-16 Vuon Dao 679 Lac Long Quan Tay Ho Hanoi Vietnam, operates from Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. local time. The Embassy reiterates its dedication to protecting the rights and dignity of Haitian citizens overseas and emphasizes the importance of vigilance and caution when considering international job opportunities. In cases of uncertainty, individuals are encouraged to consult the Embassy before making any decisions.

On October 18, 2025, Georges Wilbert Franck, Haiti’s Minister of Social Affairs and Labor, attended an open house event hosted by the National Old Age Insurance Office (ONA) as part of the institution’s 60th anniversary celebrations. The event, themed ‘ONA Family Day: Sharing and Discovery,’ aimed to foster stronger connections between the ONA, its policyholders, and the broader community. Minister Franck highlighted the ONA’s pivotal role in Haiti’s social security system, particularly in safeguarding workers’ welfare. He commended ONA Director General Ronald Bazile and his team for organizing an event that showcased the talents and potential of the institution’s employees in fields such as craftsmanship, art, and cuisine. Franck emphasized that such initiatives are vital for enhancing public understanding of the ONA’s operations and services, thereby building a positive image of the institution. Ronald Bazile, in his address, noted that the event was a precursor to the ONA’s 60th anniversary celebrations, designed to highlight the institution’s executives, departments, and services. He also underscored the event’s role in promoting Haitian culture through exhibitions, discussions, and other activities. Additionally, the ONA unveiled the ‘ONA Education Kredi Lekòl’ program, an innovative initiative offering credit facilities to insured parents to help cover their children’s educational expenses, further supporting Haitian families.