Note: This
vulnerability assessment is disseminated as a product demonstrator that best
illustrates our particular services to travellers to higher risk countries. We
strive to provide our clients with fidelity of insight that is tailored to
their specific destination and requirements. Reports are never
reproduced for third party use as circumstances are continually
evolving, even for identical endpoints. Two types of reports are usually
produced: vulnerability assessments aimed for tourists and distinct assessments
for corporations and business travellers. This courtesy report is intended
for tourists to the Republic of Haiti (Haiti). Readers should
also note that the following constitutes a condensed and generic variety
of what is researched, analyzed, assessed and delivered to the end user. If you have to travel to higher risk countries, contact us
for a preliminary and gratuitous consultation to define if you require our
services:parsec.consulting@gmail.com
*** Superseded on 30 October, see para 7***
INTRODUCTION
& CURRENT SITUATION
We
decided to provide this vulnerability assessment for our followers in order to
promote safe travel to Haiti. In the past year more and more efforts have been
made by the government of Haiti mainly through the efforts of the PM Mr.
Lamothe as well as the Tourism minister, Mrs. Villedrouin to promote tourism in
"the Pearl of the Caribbean". At the same time Haiti has seen a
recent spike in all media mentions pertaining to tourism, despite of a clear
lack of infrastructure to accommodate visitors at this time. Although generic, this
vulnerability assessment provides actionable intelligence for travel
to Haiti. Three findings are identified up front: civil unrest and crime in
urban areas as well as the presence of health hazards. Once you have made the decision to travel, become familiar with current events concerning Haiti. Prior to departure
contact the nearest Embassy of the Republic of Haiti for all requirements and do read your country's governmental travel advice. Upon arrival (we recommend Port-au-Prince) register at
your Embassy (a few countries such as France have consulates as well)
and exchange contact information. Always leave an updated itinerary with a
third party of trust as well as pertinent related information. Safe keep
your passport, health booklet and make copies for re-issue in case of loss.
Since the earthquake of 2010, many Haitians are accustomed to the presence of
light skinned foreigners who mostly conduct NGO work throughout the country. We
highly recommend for
all travelers to hire guides from highly reputable tour companies. You will
have to do some research or contact a local NGO for references. Lastly, Haitians
are a very friendly and proud people that are unfortunately going through
unnecessary hardships. The vast majority of travelers never report negative
experiences in their interactions with locals. Enjoy your worry free vacation!
ASSESSMENT
OF THREATS AND RISK FACTORS
1. Government/security forces:
The Police Nationale d'Haiti (PNH) suffers from
both mismanagement and corruption. For example illegal arrests
and detention and demands for bribes have been witnessed in the local
population however this is unlikely towards tourists. Travelers should be
reminded that since tourism is a very minor and very slowly growing contributor
to the national economy, the likelihood of tourists being targeted is unlikely besides unfortunate events in which bribes will be involved.
Many PNH members can only speak creole or french. Always inform your nearest
Embassy if experiencing legal problems. The vulnerability factors to tourists
associated from government or security forces is assessed as LOW. (See
annexes A and B for full definitions).
Our recommendations: Use common sense. Abide to all laws and directives from local authorities as warranted.
2. Kidnappings: Kidnappings targeting foreigners (NGOs, etc) are rare although they do occur. This type of crime is reported mainly for Port-au-Prince. All foreigners are seen as wealthy hence it is extremely important to use sound judgement. The vulnerability factors to tourists associated with kidnappings are assessed as LOW.
Our recommendations: Do not show obvious signs of affluence when in public; avoid wearing watches, jewellery or finer type clothing. Do not openly handle money. Remain in groups when practical and maintain a low profile while enjoying your stay. Avoid the border area with the Dominican Republic as some criminal gangs and smugglers operate. This is when hiring a tour guide makes sense to prevent many dangerous situations.
Our recommendations: Use common sense. Abide to all laws and directives from local authorities as warranted.
2. Kidnappings: Kidnappings targeting foreigners (NGOs, etc) are rare although they do occur. This type of crime is reported mainly for Port-au-Prince. All foreigners are seen as wealthy hence it is extremely important to use sound judgement. The vulnerability factors to tourists associated with kidnappings are assessed as LOW.
Our recommendations: Do not show obvious signs of affluence when in public; avoid wearing watches, jewellery or finer type clothing. Do not openly handle money. Remain in groups when practical and maintain a low profile while enjoying your stay. Avoid the border area with the Dominican Republic as some criminal gangs and smugglers operate. This is when hiring a tour guide makes sense to prevent many dangerous situations.
3. Crime: Petty crimes are common in
urban areas. Less so in rural environments. Never openly display your cell
phone or other valuables as “snatch and run” crimes are reported as anywhere
else in the world. When in vicinity of a group of local children you are likely
to be swarmed for gifts and they will snatch any objects they can. Thefts from
hotel rooms have occurred. Violent crimes against tourists and locals alike
such as homicides, armed assaults, robberies, sexual assaults, and home invasions
are rare but can occur. Gangs and organized crime groups are present mainly in
Port-au-Prince and Cap-Haitien and your guide will be helpful for areas to avoid. Be aware that little could be achieved by law
enforcement to recover stolen goods or to resolve actual crimes. The
vulnerability factors associated from crimes are assessed as MEDIUM.
Our recommendations: Be
situationally aware of your surroundings. Do not leave any of
your personal belongings unattended. Avoid showing signs of affluence. You are
advised against being alone especially after sun dawn. Do not offer opportunities
to become a victim of crime and rely on your guide.
4. Biases: There have been
reports of discrimination and abuses based on sexual orientation and gender
within the local population. We remind travellers that local culture, religious
and social perceptions, opinions and sensitivities can differ from what is
accustomed in many western countries. The
vulnerability factors associated from biases towards tourists/foreigners are
assessed as NO RECOGNIZED
THREATS.
.
5. Terrorism/Insurgencies: There are
no known terrorist groups operating in Haiti. There have been no terrorist or
armed insurgent acts reported in
the past year. The vulnerability factors associated from terrorism
or insurgencies to tourists are assessed as NO RECOGNIZED THREATS.
6. Civil unrest/violent protests: Protests, demonstrations and riots with varying degrees of violence are more frequently reported in the past few years, especially after the earthquake and due to the present political instability. We judge that public unrest is likely to rise in number in urban areas in the coming year. Tourists are unlikely to be directly affected but are likely at risk if in the vicinity of large and sudden crowd gatherings. For now, the vulnerability factors associated from civil unrest and violent protests to tourists are assessed as MEDIUM.
Our recommendations: Even though it may be difficult, leave the immediate vicinity of sudden crowd gatherings as acts of violence can suddenly arise. Your guide will be able to take necessary preventive measures to avoid such situations as he is likely to have appropriate insight.
6. Civil unrest/violent protests: Protests, demonstrations and riots with varying degrees of violence are more frequently reported in the past few years, especially after the earthquake and due to the present political instability. We judge that public unrest is likely to rise in number in urban areas in the coming year. Tourists are unlikely to be directly affected but are likely at risk if in the vicinity of large and sudden crowd gatherings. For now, the vulnerability factors associated from civil unrest and violent protests to tourists are assessed as MEDIUM.
Our recommendations: Even though it may be difficult, leave the immediate vicinity of sudden crowd gatherings as acts of violence can suddenly arise. Your guide will be able to take necessary preventive measures to avoid such situations as he is likely to have appropriate insight.
ASSESSMENT
OF HAZARDS
7. Health: Many prevalent
diseases are present most everywhere in Haiti such as tuberculosis, cholera, chikungunya and
malaria. Local food and water supplies are likely to be contaminated.
Poor sanitation is the norm and is certainly not at western standards. It is
probable that you will experience diarrhea during your stay. Local
doctors are likely to demand cash payments. At this time, the hazard factors associated from
health and diseases to tourists are assessed as HIGH.
Our
recommendations: Ensure you do consult with your local
vaccination clinic for all required immunization prior to travel. If ill, do
seek immediate medical care. Common sense practices such as drinking from
sealed bottles and to never consuming ice are prescribed. Only eat food from
reputable restaurants or better yet eat food supplied from your hotel to mitigate some risks. Bring your own
medication such as imodium for the duration of the trip. EMS services country
wide are either non-existant or of very poor standards. We recommend you see a medical NGO. Wash
your hands frequently! Use mosquito repellent as necessary and use your air
conditioning whenever possible. Purchase medical insurance prior to departure
and inquire about the policy limitations such as medical extradition.
8. Risks from climate: Haiti,
is a small country and does have a tropical climate and is therefore hot and humid.
In the summer months rainfall can be severe at times and the hurricane season spreads from June to November. The hazard factors
associated from climactic issues to tourists are assessed as LOW.
Our
recommendations: Keep hydrated by drinking bottled water only. Refer daily to weather forecasts in case of tropical storms. For travelers that are not fully acclimatized, heat exhaustion is possible.
9. Topography: Haiti has mountainous terrain
which is not easily accessible or passable for overland transport. Earthquakes have occurred; the most recent reported in
2010 however of late most tremors were recorded in the Dominican Republic side
of the island. Other reported natural disasters include floods, mudslides and
periods of drought. The hazard factors associated
from topographical issues to tourists are assessed as LOW.
Our
recommendations: Although most natural disasters are unpredictable keep appraised of local news and discuss a plan with your guide.
10. Infrastructure: Traffic
laws are often not respected. Outside major towns, road quality is
extremely poor and risky for overland transportation. Telecommunications and
internet services are modest but considered reliable. Since the 2010
earthquake much infrastructure is still in disrepair. Most building construction
is not up to western standards. Electricity supply is poor and many hours daily many cities and small towns are under blackout. The hazard factors associated from infrastructure are
assessed as LOW.
Our
recommendations: Only stay in hotels
that were built post 2010 earthquake such as in Petionville. Bear in mind that many single story dwellings did not collapse during the 2010 earthquake. A portable power generator can prove useful. For overland travel and to commute within urban areas we recommend that your guide only drives the vehicle.
VULNERABILITY
FACTORS AT A GLANCE
VULNERABILITY
FACTORS
|
ASSESSMENT
|
GOVERNMENT/SECURITY
FORCES
|
LOW
|
KIDNAPPINGS
|
LOW
|
CRIMES
& GANGS
|
MEDIUM
|
BIASES
|
NO RECOGNIZED THREAT
|
TERRORISM/INSURGENCY
|
NO RECOGNIZED THREAT
|
CIVIL
UNREST/VIOLENT PROTESTS
|
MEDIUM
|
HAZARDS
|
ASSESSMENT
|
HEALTH
& DISEASES
|
HIGH
|
CLIMATE
RISKS
|
LOW
|
TOPOGRAPHY
|
LOW
|
INFRASTRUCTURE
|
LOW
|
SUMMARY & OUTLOOK
We highly
recommend you hire a local
guide from a reputable tour company for a great experience as he will mitigate most risks
to you. Most importantly your guide will make your stay much more memorable. Do
not divulge the name of your hotel or room number to strangers. Avoid
initiating interaction with local citizens as your guide will facilitate exchanges. Be aware of
the surroundings. Obey local laws. Do not touch unknown animals, flora and
insects. Wash your hands frequently. Tourists are
often considered attractive targets for crimes of opportunity and you should
maintain a low profile and never venture alone, especially after dark. It’s generally better to use cash. Safeguard your personal belongings, passports and other
travel documents at all times and make photocopies. Between cities or areas do
travel by air if possible. Remember that most Haitians are very friendly
and most welcome visitors to their country so courtesy and respect are key for an enjoyable experience. The most significant risks associated with
travel to Haiti are from health & diseases which are assessed as HIGH. Crime and civil unrest are assessed at medium and can be alleviated following our
recommendations.
Annex A – Threat and Operational
Hazard Definitions
Vulnerability Factors
Definitions
NO RECOGNIZED THREAT: No
imminent threats have been identified.
LOW: Possible
hostile intent. Although it may occur, threats are mitigated if
certain precautions are taken. Risk is assessed at less than 25%.
MEDIUM: Incentive
to carry out hostile intent. This is based on one or more indicators such as
opportunity to act. Review our recommendations. Risk is 50%.
HIGH: High
likelihood to commit a hostile act. The associated undertaking is to beavoided. This is
based on the current assessment of the vulnerability factor. Risk is
higher than 75%.
Hazard Definitions
NO RECOGNIZED HAZARD: No hazard
has been identified.
LOW: The hazard
posed by the mentioned factor is greater than in Canada.
Serious illness, injury, death are moderately more likely. Precautionary
measures may be necessary.
MEDIUM: The
hazard posed by the mentioned factor is such that serious disease, injuries,
fatalities are probable and the chances of surviving injuries
are less than in Canada. Precautionary measures are necessary.
HIGH: The
hazard posed by the mentioned factor is such that serious disease, injury or
fatality is/are extreme. Prolonged exposure will result in serious
injury/illness and/or fatality and this hazard is to be avoided based
on the indicators for the assessment.
Annex B – Terminology
Our definitions
& associated key words
Government Forces: Military,
Police, para-military members. Uniformed or not. Bribes, corruption,
unreliability, illegal arrest or detainment.
Kidnappings: Actual
acts reported, known areas renowned for and opportunities for.
Crimes: Crimes
against persons to include assault, robbery, carjacking, rape, murder, crimes
of opportunity and by profiling. Crimes against property to include burglary,
identity theft, larceny, auto theft, carjacking, cyber scams.
Gangs: Crimes
that include multiple perpetrators, access to prostitution, bribery, extortion,
and blackmailing.
Terrorism/Insurgency: Areas
with history of acts, presence of, popular or perceived support for.
Biases: How will
the traveller(s) be perceived in host country. Vulnerabilities may include one
or a combination of the following; race, religion, ethnic background,
language(s) spoken, skin color, gender, sexual orientation, mixed-race couple,
past visas in passport(s), political affiliation, financial status,
nationality, employer, etc.
References:
http://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/
http://www.smartraveller.gov.au
http://www.trust.org/alertnet/
https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook.html
https://www.osac.gov/
http://www.canadainternational.gc.ca/
www.southamericaliving.com
http://www.who.int/
https://www.google.ca/
*** One confidential source intentionally omitted.
http://www.smartraveller.gov.au
http://www.trust.org/alertnet/
https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook.html
https://www.osac.gov/
http://www.canadainternational.gc.ca/
www.southamericaliving.com
http://www.who.int/
https://www.google.ca/
*** One confidential source intentionally omitted.
We welcome inquiries so we can determine your security needs. Your first consultation is always free. We invite you to review our past twitter posts @parsecconsult as well as this blog's entries. We encourage feedback and questions to our e-mail:parsec.consulting@gmail.com
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