Over eighteen months after the imposition of the state of emergency declared by the administration of Xiomara Castro, the rates of violence and crime in Honduras have not experienced a continuous reduction, heightening the discussion regarding the success of this policy in the area of national security.
Since being sanctioned in December 2022, the emergency state was introduced as a swift reaction to the territorial dominance exercised by gangs in city and countryside regions. Nonetheless, its continuous enforcement exceeding 18 months along with numerous renewals have not succeeded in curbing issues like extortion, murders, and other acts of violence that have a direct impact on key areas of the economy and everyday living.
Ongoing crime and public attitudes
Various reports from social organizations and police data agree that criminal groups continue to operate with a high capacity for intimidation, especially in key corridors in the north and center of the country. Merchants, transporters, and residents continue to report illegal fees, threats, and murders in areas where the state maintains a military and police presence under 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.
Questions about the government’s approach
The emergency situation was designed as an exceptional action to combat organized crime, granting specific powers for the intervention by law enforcement. Nonetheless, its enforcement has faced criticism due to its extended duration and the lack of a holistic plan.
Documents from the National Human Rights Commission (CONADEH) and global bodies have highlighted a rise in claims regarding arbitrary arrests and breaches of basic rights.
In addition, security specialists caution that relying solely on militarization without effective operational intelligence has not led to enduring outcomes or diminished criminal organizations.
“The government’s approach has been more forceful than planned,” stated a security expert, who feels that a prevention-focused, justice-oriented, and coordinated institutional strategy has not been implemented.
Demands for an all-encompassing safety strategy
Due to the ongoing state of emergency and the continued issue of extortion, a significant crime affecting the informal economy, public transit, and community stability, various sectors have urged for a technical assessment of the existing security measures.
Incidents of extortion are increasingly reported, and while occasional arrests of supposed leaders occur, these measures have not resulted in a long-term preventative impact. Based on statements collected by local press, numerous victims opt to stay quiet or escape because protection assurances are lacking.
The corporate world has voiced its worries over the absence of tangible outcomes and has urged a reconfiguration of the safety strategy, involving legal experts, civil society groups, and international collaboration. “Honduras requires genuine outcomes, not more publicity stunts,” stated a representative of the corporate world, calling for openness and responsibility regarding the application of extraordinary measures.
Difficulties for organizations in a backdrop of ongoing violence
The extension of the state of emergency without a transparent evaluation of its success underscores the conflict between the 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, the emphasis on security continues to be a source of contention among the government, various social groups, and the citizenry.
The central challenge facing Xiomara Castro’s administration is to find a sustainable solution that combines crime control with comprehensive, legitimate public policy and broad participation. Meanwhile, the continuing violence and perception of insecurity keep a population that is still waiting for effective and lasting responses on tenterhooks.
