Deprived of their freedom, but also of dignity and basic healthcare, 312 inmates are living in inhumane conditions in northern Haiti. Following a series of visits conducted in December 2025, the Haitian NGO "Association of Volunteers for the Reintegration of Inmates" (AVRED) revealed the extent of the humanitarian crisis affecting prisons 1 and 2 in Fort-Liberté.

In a State governed by the rule of law, detention should never mean the deprivation of human dignity. Yet, the daily reality in the Fort-Liberté prisons reveals a critical situation. The two facilities currently house 312 inmates (279 convicted and 33 awaiting trial).

Behind these figures are men deprived not only of their freedom, but also of adequate healthcare, basic sanitation, and any real prospect of social reintegration, the NGO laments.

One of the most critical points raised by AVRED in its 2025 report concerns access to healthcare.

For more than 300 prisoners, medical care is inadequate :

• Only one doctor for all inmates;

• Three nurses;

• Two psychology interns, without the necessary resources;

• A near-total absence of essential medications.

The lack of isolation spaces facilitates the spread of serious illnesses such as tuberculosis, malaria, HIV/AIDS, and scabies. Without urgent intervention, the risk of a major epidemic is imminent.

The state of the infrastructure at Fort-Liberté prisons 1 and 2 demonstrates a complete institutional neglect. The report highlights serious deficiencies: cracked walls and a total lack of electricity; overcrowded cells, lack of running water, and overflowing septic tanks; and a shortage of prison staff, increasing the risk of tension and violence.

Food is another key aspect of this crisis. With only two cooks for 300 people, detainees receive nutrient-poor food, making it physically impossible to guarantee a decent diet, let alone one adapted to the needs of detainees suffering from chronic or serious illnesses. This weakens their immune systems and exacerbates existing conditions, AVRED observed.

The right to a fair trial is directly threatened by the lack of transportation. Without a functioning service vehicle, detainees cannot go to the hospital in case of emergency, nor can they appear in court. This situation leads to an unjustified extension of pretrial detention.

In conclusion, AVRED emphasizes that "[...] the situation at Fort-Liberté is not just a prison problem; it is a collective failure. Respect for human rights in Haiti absolutely requires :

• Immediate intervention from national and international partners;

• The urgent strengthening of the health and logistics system;

• The rehabilitation of infrastructure to guarantee the safety of all."

HL/ HaitiLibre