Extortion and violence persist in Honduras despite prolonged state of emergency

Over eighteen months have passed since Xiomara Castro’s government declared a state of emergency, yet violence and crime rates in Honduras have remained consistently high. This situation has fueled ongoing discussions regarding the success of this approach in addressing national security concerns.

Following its authorization in December 2022, the state of emergency was introduced as a swift measure to address the gang dominance in both city and rural environments. Nevertheless, its ongoing enforcement for over a year and a half, along with numerous renewals, has not succeeded in curbing issues like extortion, murders, and other violent acts that have a direct impact on vital parts of the economy and day-to-day living.

Ongoing crime and public attitudes

Several analyses from social organizations and law enforcement statistics indicate that crime syndicates remain active with significant power to intimidate, particularly in strategic routes across the northern and central regions of the nation. Shopkeepers, drivers, and locals persist in reporting unlawful charges, intimidation, and homicides in zones where military and police forces are present as part of the state of emergency.

Local leaders, including an individual consulted in Tegucigalpa, have reported that “the community continues to live in fear” and that no significant progress in safety is observed. These voices caution that criminal activity still dominates many neighborhoods, while officials provide statistics that do not match the street reality, which has increased public skepticism.

Inquiries regarding the government’s strategy

The emergency state was introduced as an exceptional action to tackle organized crime, granting special authority to security forces for intervention. Nevertheless, its execution has faced criticism due to its extended duration and the lack of a thorough plan.

Documents from the National Human Rights Commissioner (CONADEH) and global entities have highlighted a rise in accounts of unjust arrests and breaches of basic rights.

Simultaneously, security specialists caution that militarization lacking operational intelligence has not produced enduring outcomes or weakened criminal organizations.

“The state’s response has been more coercive than strategic,” said a security analyst, who believes that a model of intervention based on prevention, justice, and institutional coordination has not been achieved.

Calls for a comprehensive security policy

Due to the ongoing state of emergency and the continued threat of extortion, which greatly affects the informal economy, public transit, and community peace, various groups have requested a detailed analysis of the existing security policy.

Incidents of extortion are increasing, and while there are occasional detentions of supposed leaders, these efforts have not produced a lasting deterrent impact. Based on accounts collected by local news outlets, several victims decide to stay quiet or escape because of the absence of assured protection.

The business sector has expressed concern about the lack of concrete results and has called for a redesign of the security approach, with the participation of justice specialists, social organizations, and international cooperation. “Honduras does not need more media shows. It needs real results,” said a spokesperson for the business sector, demanding transparency and accountability on the use of exceptional measures.

Challenges for institutions in a context of persistent violence

Extending the state of emergency without openly evaluating its impact underscores the conflict between the pressing need to curb violence and the obligation to uphold democratic principles and basic rights. In a nation characterized by weak institutions and significant distrust towards the authorities, emphasizing security continues to create tension among the government, societal groups, and the populace.

The primary task for Xiomara Castro’s government is to identify a lasting approach that merges crime management with holistic, credible public policies and extensive engagement. In the meantime, ongoing violence and the sense of danger leave the community, which continues to seek impactful and enduring solutions, in suspense.