Background on the Gangs and Their Impact
The United States has imposed sanctions on two criminal Haitian gangs, Gran Grif and Viv Ansanm, designating them as terrorist organizations due to their alleged involvement in acts of terrorism amid escalating violence in the Caribbean nation.
Who are Gran Grif and Viv Ansanm?
Gran Grif and Viv Ansanm are two prominent criminal organizations in Haiti. Gran Grif, also known as “G9,” is a coalition of nine gangs responsible for numerous violent acts, including kidnappings and extortion. Viv Ansanm is a coalition of over twenty of the most dangerous criminal groups in Haiti, contributing to the country’s escalating violence and instability.
Why are they relevant?
These gangs have been linked to a significant portion of the violence and human rights abuses in Haiti. Their activities have resulted in over 1,600 deaths and 580 injuries due to gang-related violence during the first quarter of 2025, according to the United Nations. Moreover, over a million people have been internally displaced, marking a 48% increase from September 2024 data.
US Actions and Consequences
The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) under the US Department of the Treasury has added both gangs to its list of sanctioned entities, labeling them as “transnational criminal organizations.” This designation will have economic and legal implications for both groups, including penalties for those who provide “material support” or “resources” to these organizations.
Geographical Distribution of Violence
- The majority of the documented “abuses” have occurred in Port-au-Prince’s metropolitan area.
- The Department of Artibonite follows as the second-highest location for violence.
- The Central and Northern Departments also report significant levels of gang-related violence.
Key Questions and Answers
- What are the consequences of this designation? Both Gran Grif and Viv Ansanm will face economic and legal repercussions, including penalties for those who support them.
- How many people have been affected by the violence? Over 1,600 deaths and 580 injuries have been reported due to gang-related violence in Haiti during the first quarter of 2025.
- Which areas have experienced the most violence? The metropolitan area of Port-au-Prince, the Department of Artibonite, the Central Department, and the Northern Department have reported the highest levels of gang violence.
