Cruise ship industry contacts report that approximately one million U.S. citizens enter the country by ship every year, primarily in Roatn, but also in La Ceiba on the northern coast. These workshops are part of a multiphase effort to promote transparency, cooperation,. Authorities generally respected these rights. Observers noted several significant improvements in transparency procedures, including electoral reforms, an updated voter registry and new national identification cards, and new technology that included a biometric verification system and a preliminary results transmission system. Although 74 percent of births were attended by skilled health care personnel, NGOs reported significant gaps in obstetric care, especially in rural areas. Home. Recent Elections: In November Xiomara Castro of the LIBRE Party won a four-year presidential term in elections that were generally considered free, fair, and transparent. There are no known international terrorist groups operating in Honduras. Also see the Department of Labors Findings on the Worst Forms of Child Labor at https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ilab/resources/reports/child-labor/findings. U.S. Department of State. Arbitrary Deprivation of Life and Other Unlawful or Politically Motivated Killings, c. Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman, or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, Arrest Procedures and Treatment of Detainees, f. Arbitrary or Unlawful Interference with Privacy, Family, Home, or Correspondence, a. The law provides for freedom of peaceful assembly, and the government generally respected this right. Local police and emergency services lack sufficient resources to respond effectively to serious crime. Occupational Safety and Health: The government did not effectively enforce occupational safety and health standards, particularly in the construction, garment assembly, and agricultural sectors, as well as in the informal economy. The law permits fines, and while the monetary penalty is commensurate with those for other laws involving denials of civil rights, such as discrimination, the failure of the government to collect the fines facilitated continued labor law violations. Share this via Reddit The law entered into force on November 1. The law requires an employer to begin collective bargaining once workers establish a union, and it specifies that if more than one union exists at a company, the employer must negotiate with the largest. In 2019, there was one murder case involving a resident U.S. citizen in Roatn. On July 5, the National Tribunal Court found Roberto David Castillo Mejia guilty for his role as one of the alleged intellectual authors of her murder. The government provided victims of sexual violence access to other health-care services. The law provides for freedom of internal movement, foreign travel, emigration, and repatriation, and the government generally respected these rights. Penalties for facilitating child sex trafficking are six to 12 years in prison and monetary fines. Gangs are not reluctant to use violence, and specialize in murder-for-hire, carjacking, extortion, and other violent street crime. Litigants may sue a criminal defendant for damages if authorized by a criminal court. Honduras ranked second in the world regarding the number of killings of land and environmental defenders per capita, according to the NGO Global Witness. The IACHR received information on frequent threats of lawsuits and prosecutions, including for slander and libel, hindering human rights work in Honduras. In January, legislators increased the majority needed to amend the provision banning abortion from two-thirds to three-quarters. This is a common practice for most automobile accidents where personal injury occurs, and for cases in which someone is accused of a criminal act. The Ministry of Securitys Directorate of Disciplinary Police Affairs investigated members of the Honduran National Police accused of human rights abuses. Long periods of pretrial detention remained common and problematic, with many other pretrial detainees held in the general population with convicted prisoners. The government ended the curfew on October 1. Additionally, illegal drugs are for sale in many of the popular tourist areas during the evening hours. A revision to the penal code that entered into force in June 2020 broadly reduces criminal penalties for corruption by officials. There is no information to suggest that criminals specifically target U.S. citizens or foreigners. The Honduras Medical Center (HMC) is the primary private hospital that the Embassy uses for emergency response and when hospitalization is required. Her retrial was scheduled for February 2022. Seek legal representation before admitting or signing any legal form that acknowledges culpability. By law women have equal access to educational opportunities. The average age of first contact with gangs is 13 years old, a 2020 UN Development Programme report found. We would like to show you a description here but the site won't allow us. An independent press and a functioning democratic political system combined to promote freedom of expression, including for members of the media. Officials flew Garza, a 48-year-old . There were allegations that companies used collective pacts, which are collective contracts with nonunionized workers, to prevent unionization and collective bargaining because only one collective contract may exist in each workplace. Despite being considered the best private hospital in Tegucigalpa, it is not Joint Commission International (JCI) accredited; JCI is an independent, not-for-profit organization that evaluates and accredits healthcare organizations. The law requires individuals and companies that employ more than 20 school-age children at their facilities to provide a location for a school. In August, a former director of the Honduran hydroelectric company DESA was convicted of organizing the 2016 assassination of environmental and Indigenous rights defender Berta Cceres, who opposed construction of a hydroelectric dam on the Gualcarque river. Honduras is one of the Western Hemispheres deadliest countries for journalists, with security forces representing their biggest threat, Reporters Without Borders noted in 2021. In November 2019, Tegucigalpa authorities began developing a luxury housing project in the La Tigra bioreserve, just outside of the city. Violence against LGBT individuals displaces many internally and forces others to leave the country to seek asylum. The 18th Street and MS-13 (. ) 19 ianuarie 2023 Share this via Facebook honduras crime and safety report 2022 - rccw.rocks The government allocated a budget of nearly 21 million lempiras ($865,000) for the continued operation of a protection mechanism for journalists, human rights defenders, and judicial-sector operators. As a result, criminals operate with a high degree of impunity. There were different methodologies to measure the size of the informal economy, and a March 2020 UNDP report estimated that 82 percent of workers were part of the informal economy. The Public Ministry reported two such cases in judicial processing and five other cases under investigation as of September. The law prohibits police from unionizing (see section 7.a.). Discrimination is also common in schools, the workplace, and in the home. Reports of kidnappings of U.S. citizens are not common, with zero reports for 2019. Fire Department operations: +504-2231-1667. Coordinator for the Arctic Region, Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources, Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization, Under Secretary for Arms Control and International Security, Bureau of Arms Control, Verification and Compliance, Bureau of International Security and Nonproliferation, Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights, Bureau of Conflict and Stabilization Operations, Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor, Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration, Office of International Religious Freedom, Office of the Special Envoy To Monitor and Combat Antisemitism, Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons, Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment, Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs, Office of the Science and Technology Adviser, Bureau of the Comptroller and Global Financial Services, Bureau of Information Resource Management, Office of Management Strategy and Solutions, Bureau of International Organization Affairs, Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs, Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs, U.S. The U.S. Department of State strongly recommends purchasing international health insurance before traveling internationally. Victims were primarily impoverished individuals in both rural and urban areas (see section 7.c.). The law establishes an independent and impartial judiciary in civil matters, including access to a court to seek damages for human rights violations. For more in-depth information, review OSACs Honduras country page for original OSAC reporting, consular messages, and contact information, some of which may be available only to private-sector representatives with an OSAC password. The law provides for freedom of expression, including for members of the press and other media, with some restrictions, and the government generally respected this right. In August, he reported having been brutally beaten by police officers while doing his job. The law allows the release of other suspects pending formal charges, on the condition that they periodically report to authorities, although management of this reporting mechanism was often weak. Honduras decided in late 2018, based on reciprocity, to institute the same reporting requirement. The rainy season usually runs May-November. Judges face interferenceincluding political pressure, threats, and harassmentfrom the executive branch, private actors with connections to government, and gangs. Significant human rights issues included credible reports of: unlawful or arbitrary killings, including extrajudicial killings; torture and cases of cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment by government agents ; harsh and life-threatening prison conditions; arbitrary arrest or detention; serious restrictions on free expression and Spurred by anger with the government over accusations of public corruption, allegations of involvement in narcotics trafficking, and efforts to pass controversial education reform, protests and demonstrations were near-daily occurrences at times during 2019. The law permits defendants to confront witnesses against them and offer witnesses and evidence in their defense. Marred by corruption and abuse, the judiciary and police remain largely ineffective. OSAC In March 2019, the Honduran Government created the National Urban Transportation Security Force to combat extortion and other crimes perpetrated by gangs. Although reports of kidnappings have dropped considerably in recent years, they continue to affect both the local and expatriate communities, with victims sometimes paying large ransoms for the prospect of release. Review OSACs report, Understanding the Consular Travel Advisory System. The law provides for criminal penalties for corruption by officials, but authorities did not implement the law effectively, and officials continued to engage in corrupt practices with impunity. Cable signal theft and counterfeit products are the most prevalent violations of intellectual property rights in Honduras. ; and read the State Departments webpage on, Passengers on public buses have been the victims of robbery at roadblocks and bus stops, during daytime and nighttime hours. PDF U.S. Department of State - United States Department of State CONADEH reported 69 cases of alleged torture or cruel and inhuman treatment by security forces through August, while the Public Ministry received 18 such reports. In addition to complying with local laws, companies involved in natural resource extraction or energy generation should ensure they fully consult with communities in accordance with international standards. Violence was often rooted in a broader context of conflict over land and natural resources, extensive corruption, lack of transparency and community consultation, other criminal activity, and limited state ability to protect the rights of vulnerable communities. Transgender women were particularly vulnerable to employment and education discrimination; many could find employment only as sex workers, increasing their vulnerability to violence and extortion. The quasi-governmental National Committee for the Prevention of Torture, Cruel, Inhuman, or Degrading Treatment (CONAPREV) received 18 complaints of the use of torture or cruel and inhuman treatment through August. Avoid using Collectivos (white sedan taxis with a sticker on the windshield denoting its established route), Roleteros (private white sedan taxis with no established routes), and Rapiditos (small buses that pick up multiple riders). The public transportation sector is a regular target of extortion, and experiences higher levels of homicide than many other sectors. Reproductive Rights: There were no reports of coerced abortion or involuntary sterilization on the part of government authorities. The CA-4 agreement among El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras allows for the inspection-free movement of citizens among these countries, reducing overall inspection at land crossings. or the United States Government, except as otherwise noted (e.g., travel advisories, public statements). A 2019 Inter-American Commission on Human Rights report noted there were insufficient hospital beds and inadequate supplies at the only hospital that serviced Gracias a Dios Department, home to most of the Miskito community. The national curfew instituted in response to COVID-19, however, limited the freedom of internal movement and affected the freedom to leave the country, including for individuals at risk of or subject to persecution or torture. According to the Inter-American Press Association, 29 journalists were beneficiaries of official protective measures. International Child Abductions: The country is a party to the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction. Meanwhile, 59% reported having been assaulted at least once while a passenger in a taxi (. ) Media linked her killing to organized criminal groups and drug trafficking organizations. Exercise extreme caution driving on isolated stretches of road and passing other vehicles on mountainous curves. Violent transnational criminal organizations are also involved in narcotics trafficking and other illicit commerce. In these sectors employers frequently paid workers for the standard 44-hour workweek irrespective of any additional hours they worked. The U.S. Department of State has assessed Tegucigalpa as being a LOW-threat location for terrorism directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests. honduras crime and safety report 2021. On March 28, transgender activist Vanessa Zuniga was killed in Tela, Atlantida Department. 25% of Americans Experienced Burglary in 2022; 80% Want Safer Homes As of September CONADEH had received 33 complaints. The government has an Office for Persons with Disabilities located within the Ministry of Development and Social Inclusion, but its ability to provide services to persons with disabilities was limited. Major cities connect via an inconsistently maintained, two-lane system of paved roads, with many unpaved secondary roads. Under the Comprehensive Regional Protection and Solutions Framework, with significant support from the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the government continued to build capacity to provide services to vulnerable populations, including IDPs, those at risk of forced displacement, refugees, and returned migrants. These deaths included several in San Pedro Sula and La Ceiba involving U.S. citizens murdered shortly after arriving in the country. In April 2019, one or more individuals attempted a surreptitious breach of perimeter fencing at a U.S. Embassy residence. Corruption: The new trial of former first lady Rosa Elena Bonilla de Lobo on charges of fraud and misappropriation of public funds, originally set to commence in March, was twice delayed for medical reasons. Your session will expire soon and log you out. Anticorruption efforts remained an area of concern, as did the governments ability to protect justice-sector officials, such as prosecutors and judges. Transgender persons are prohibited from changing their legal gender status. For information or questions concerning a country's animal disease status and restrictions please contact the APHIS Veterinary Services, Strategy and Policy, Animal Product Import and Export at: USDA-APHIS. The center, administered by the National Prison Institute, was on a military installation and received some support services from the military. Although its specialists occasionally cannot provide the U.S. standard of care, the hospital and diagnostic departments do have the capability to provide most medical procedures. Employers frequently refused to comply with STSS orders that required them to reinstate workers who had been dismissed for participating in union activities. There are no legal cases involving instances of terrorism affecting U.S. citizens or facilities brought before the Honduran judicial system, and no reports of judicial developments that would have a negative impact on U.S. counterterrorism efforts. Honduras Crime Rate & Statistics 1990-2023 | MacroTrends The law also imposes prison sentences of up to two years, eight months for child labor violations that endanger the life or morality of a child age 16 or 17 and up to three years, four months for children younger than 16. In addition to complying with local laws, companies involved in natural resource extraction or energy generation should ensure they fully consult with communities in accordance with international standards. For years, street gangs have charged protection money from bus and taxi drivers and store owners in Honduras, as in neighboring El Salvador. Review OSACs report, Understanding the Consular Travel Advisory System, The U.S. Department of State has assessed Tegucigalpa as being a. Gracias a Diosis a remote location where narcotics trafficking is frequent, infrastructure is weak, government services are limited, and police/military presence is scarce. Counterfeit medicines are available inpulperas (private home-operated convenience stores), but have also been reported inFarmacias del Ahorro. Armed robberies, burglaries, vandalization, home invasions, and extortions occur; closely guarded officials, businesspersons, and diplomats are not immune. Do not travel to Gracias a Dios Department due to crime. The government used the pretrial detention center to hold high-profile suspects and those in need of additional security, including police and military officials. Uniforms and vehicles are all clearly marked. -threat location for terrorism directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests. LGBT people are frequently targets of discrimination, extortion, and violence from gangs, the national civil police and military police, and members of the public. Emergency services, even in Tegucigalpa, generally are basic. CONADEH received four reports as of August. Despite significant international and local public pressure, MACCIHs mandate ended in January 2020 without agreement for its extension between the OAS and the Honduran government. Review the State Departments webpage on. Its operations to receive and process cases were reliant on substantial support from UNHCR. There are few U.S.-educated physicians in Tegucigalpa. Defendants may receive free assistance from an interpreter. The designation requires banks to impose a higher level of scrutiny on politically exposed persons financial transactions. The law establishes prison sentences of up to two and one-half years for child abuse. They had limited representation in the national government and consequently little direct input into decisions affecting their lands, cultures, traditions, and the allocation of natural resources. Would you like to continue with this session or log out? There is street crime even in gated communities commonly referred to locally as. On April 27, the Public Ministry filed an indictment against police officer Jarol Rolando Perdomo Sarmiento for the February 6 murder of Keyla Martinez in La Esperanza, Intibuca Department. Embassy employees and others have experienced skimming at well-known restaurants, hotels, and retailers. Review OSACs reports, Hotels: The Inns and Outs and Considerations for Hotel Security. Honduras - United States Department of State Major cities (e.g. Since its inception in 2016, MACCIH has worked with the Public Ministry to achieve success on several significant cases, including against current and former public officials. The number of inspections increased significantly as the STSS resumed normal inspections, suspended in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The prosecution may request an additional six-month extension, but many detainees remained in pretrial detention much longer, including for more time than the maximum period of incarceration for their alleged crime. Backsliding occurred in cases brought during the four-year mandate of the OAS Mission to Support the Fight Against Corruption and Impunity in Honduras; several of its cases were dismissed or postponed as courts heard appeals based on the new code. Assassinations and violence continue under military supervision. Red Cross ambulance: 911, (504) 2227-7474 or (504) 2227-7575. There were no reports of anti-Semitic acts. The government did not effectively enforce the law. The government tasks CONAPREV with visiting prisons and making recommendations for protecting the rights of prisoners. Honduras lacks the infrastructure to maintain water purity and food safety. Civil society continued to raise problems with minimum wage violations, highlighting agricultural companies in the south as frequent violators. Respect for the Integrity of the Person, Including Freedom from: a. Crime Information for Tourists in Honduras Crime is widespread in Honduras and requires a high degree of caution by U.S. visitors and residents alike. Only sealed commercial water containers (bottles) are considered safe to drink. Land title procedures have been an issue leading to investment disputes involving U.S. nationals who are landowners. Human Rights Watch defends the rights of people in close to 100 countries worldwide, spotlighting abuses and bringing perpetrators to justice, Human Rights Watch is a 501(C)(3)nonprofit registered in the US under EIN: 13-2875808, Internal Displacement, Migration, and Asylum. Freedom of Expression, Including for Members of the Press and Other Media, b. Freedoms of Peaceful Assembly and Association, d. Freedom of Movement and the Right to Leave the Country, e. Status and Treatment of Internally Displaced Persons, Section 3.