UN Women is hailing recent progress in Haiti’s electoral process, emphasizing that the meaningful participation of women is essential for strengthening democracy in the country. The organization called the recruitment of women to communal (OECs) and departmental electoral offices (OEDs) “a step forward” in the push for greater inclusion and equality in Haitian elections.
In a statement, UN Women praised the resilience and commitment of Haitian women, noting their vital role in advancing democracy and human rights—even while facing persistent barriers like gender-based violence, which often limits their public engagement. “Their participation ensures inclusive and representative electoral governance, guaranteeing the country’s democratic legitimacy,” the agency said.
According to UN Women, data from the Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) shows encouraging signs: some departments are surpassing a 30 percent threshold for women’s participation in electoral management roles. The South department recorded 38.1 percent female participation, followed by Les Nippes with 33.33 percent, and the Centre with 32.5 percent. Notably, nine women were appointed to lead offices in the South, and two women in Ouest 1.
While these gains are significant, UN Women noted that progress is uneven across the country. In the Ouest 1 department and Artibonite, women’s representation hovers around 27 percent—still below the minimum quota of 30 percent. Several municipalities, particularly in areas like Lascahobas, Ducis, and parts of the North-East and West, reported no female candidates at all.
The situation in more insecure areas like Cité Soleil, Petit Goâve, and Cap Haïtien is especially troubling. UN Women suggested that high levels of violence could be a contributing factor to the low participation rates in those regions.
Highlighting the ongoing disparities, UN Women urged Haiti’s Presidential Transitional Council and government to intensify efforts to meet the 30 percent quota across all levels of governance, including candidate nominations. The agency stressed that real progress will require institutional reforms, incentives to boost women’s involvement, and national awareness campaigns to tackle systemic, cultural, and political barriers.
UN Women reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Haitian women’s political engagement and pledged continued collaboration with national and international partners. “Women’s full participation in public affairs management is a fundamental pillar for the consolidation of democracy and sustainable development in Haiti,” the group said.
