US Terrorist Designation for Haiti's Gangs Could Backfire, NGOs Warn

Washington's decision to label Haiti's main gangs as terrorist organizations could unintentionally boost their influence, according to warnings from NGOs focused on organized crime and human rights.

The designation targets gangs like Viv Ansanm and Gran Grif, seeking to isolate them by cutting financial ties with the U.S.

This classification threatens NGOs operating in dangerous zones to provide aid, possibly escalating dependency on gangs. The Center for Analysis and Research for Human Rights expresses concerns about potential negative impacts on Haiti's most vulnerable populations.

(With inputs from agencies.)