Haiti Electoral Preparations and CARICOM Mission

The CARICOM Eminent Persons Group (EPG) has raised concerns over Haiti’s preparations for the first round of elections scheduled for 13 December 2026, particularly the slow pace of voter registration and the deteriorating security situation. Following its 2–9 September mission to Haiti, the EPG said that although important steps are being taken to restart the electoral process, conditions remain insufficient for nationwide voter registration, political campaigning, freedom of movement, and safe participation in the elections. The group also called on international partners to accelerate security commitments made under UN Security Council Resolution 2793. These concerns were highlighted in a Caribbean National Weekly report published on 15 September 2026 and detailed in the official CARICOM statement on the EPG’s visit.

Despite the challenges, Haiti’s electoral authorities continue preparations for the December vote. The Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) has been engaging with CARICOM and other stakeholders on voter registration, implementation of the electoral calendar, and public outreach, with particular attention to young people, women, internally displaced persons, and other groups expected to participate in the elections. However, Haitian and regional reporting continues to highlight concerns over the security environment and the ability to establish conditions necessary for meaningful political participation. Le Nouvelliste’s 14 September report provides additional context on the EPG’s assessment that electoral preparations remain insufficient.

Ultimately, the implementation of Haiti’s electoral roadmap will depend heavily on improvements in security, expanded voter registration, and sustained international support. The CARICOM EPG has urged international partners to fulfil pledged security commitments and strengthen coordination with Haitian institutions, while CARICOM continues to support Haitian-led efforts toward credible and inclusive elections. The group’s assessment underscores the need for regional solidarity and coordinated international assistance if Haiti is to create the conditions necessary for a successful electoral process and progress toward the restoration of constitutional governance.