Haiti News Roundup: Top 8 Stories from May 2025

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May 2025 was a tumultuous month for Haiti, marked by escalating gang violence, political uncertainty, humanitarian crises, and international interventions. Here’s an in-depth analysis of the eight most significant developments that shaped the nation during this period.

1. Escalating Gang Violence and Government Response

Gang control in Haiti has intensified, with armed groups now dominating approximately 90% of Port-au-Prince and expanding into rural areas. The Haitian government, overwhelmed by the situation, has resorted to employing explosive-laden drones to combat these gangs. Since February, over 300 individuals have been killed in drone strikes, though no major gang leaders have been confirmed among the casualties. The lack of transparency and oversight has raised concerns about potential civilian harm. 

2. U.S. Designates Haitian Gangs as Terrorist Organizations

On May 2, the United States designated two of Haiti’s most powerful gangs, Viv Ansanm and Gran Grif, as transnational terrorist organizations. This move aims to disrupt their operations by cutting off financial and logistical support. However, some humanitarian organizations warn that such designations could hinder aid delivery in gang-controlled areas. 

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3. Supreme Court Allows Revocation of Humanitarian Parole

The U.S. Supreme Court permitted the Trump administration to revoke humanitarian parole for over 500,000 immigrants, including many Haitians. This decision exposes thousands to potential deportation, despite ongoing legal challenges. Advocates argue that returning individuals to Haiti amid its current instability poses significant risks to their safety. 

4. Haitian Americans Struggle to Return Home

Due to the suspension of commercial flights into Port-au-Prince and widespread violence, many Haitian Americans are unable to return home. Despite the dangers, individuals like Pastor Jean Rigaud express a strong desire to return to support their communities. Alternative routes, such as flying into Cap-Haïtien, are limited and perilous due to gang activity on connecting roads. 

5. Michael Geilenfeld Sentenced for Abuse at Haitian Orphanage

Michael Karl Geilenfeld, founder of St. Joseph’s Home for Boys in Haiti, was sentenced to 210 years in U.S. federal prison for sexually abusing children at the orphanage. The conviction highlights the vulnerabilities of children in institutional care and the importance of oversight in humanitarian operations. 

6. Impact of Violence on Haitian Children

The ongoing violence has severely affected children in Haiti. Many are pulled from schools and, in some cases, coerced into gang activities. Organizations like Confiance Haiti are working to provide education and safe spaces, but the scale of the crisis overwhelms available resources. 

7. Floods Devastate Northern Haiti

Heavy rains in May led to significant flooding in northern Haiti, particularly in Ouanaminthe and Ferrier. Over 3,200 homes were flooded, affecting more than 3,000 families. The disaster exacerbates existing humanitarian challenges, including displacement and food insecurity. 

8. Uncertainty Surrounds Upcoming Elections

Haiti plans to hold general elections on November 15, 2025, the first since 2016. However, the ongoing violence and political instability cast doubt on the feasibility of conducting free and fair elections. A proposed constitutional referendum, initially scheduled for May, has also been delayed indefinitely. 

May 2025 has been a period of profound challenges for Haiti, with escalating violence, political uncertainty, and humanitarian crises. The international community’s response, including designating gangs as terrorist organizations and revoking humanitarian protections, has significant implications for the nation’s future. As Haiti approaches its scheduled elections, the need for comprehensive support and sustainable solutions becomes increasingly urgent.