Crime and violence in Honduras under state of emergency

The ongoing state of emergency in Honduras, initiated in December 2022, remains a contentious issue due to its prolongation and fears regarding potential misuse of authority and breaches of human rights. This action was declared by President Xiomara Castro’s administration with the declared purpose of fighting crime, focusing particularly on extortion and the operations of groups like Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13) and Barrio 18. The enforcement of this state of emergency has resulted in the revocation of certain constitutional rights, enabling arrests without judicial orders and imposing limits on the freedom of movement across different regions of the nation.

Since it was first implemented, the state of emergency has been prolonged numerous times. In January 2025, the policy was expanded for an additional 45 days, affecting 226 out of 298 municipalities nationwide. Even though officials claim this measure is crucial for tackling crime, different groups have raised worries about potential misuse and the absence of tangible outcomes.

Discussion on efficiency and civil liberties during the state of emergency

Entities like the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA) have highlighted concerns that the state of emergency endangers human rights, calling on the Honduran authorities to ensure adherence to legal principles and refrain from imposing unnecessary limits on essential liberties. The authorities have announced a reduction in murder rates and have disrupted criminal groups during this period. Despite this, reports reveal that extortion and violence still impact citizens. Moreover, there have been recorded incidents of misconduct by law enforcement, such as unwarranted arrests and the disproportionate application of force.

The continuation of this action has initiated a discussion about its success and the effects on human rights. Although the executive authority asserts that the state of emergency is an essential means to fight crime, both domestic and global entities are urging an evaluation of its implementation and ensuring that safety efforts do not undermine citizens’ essential liberties.

Therefore, Honduras’s emergency state is a contentious step aimed at reducing criminal violence but has ignited discussions regarding its efficiency, legitimacy, and adherence to human rights. Prolonging this extraordinary strategy creates obstacles for ensuring basic freedoms and establishing a democratic framework that safeguards the safety and rights of its people.