Client: U.S. Agency for International Development
Duration: 2016-2021
Region: Latin America and the Caribbean
Country: Honduras
Solutions: Governance Fragile States
In the wake of the 2009 removal of President Manual Zelaya, a weak state response to gang-related crime has led to unprecedented levels of violence. The average Honduran living in an urban area faces risks such as bus robberies, indiscriminate homicides, extortion phone calls, and other criminal activities perpetrated by gangs. Along with corrupt law enforcement officials and political interests that oppose reforms, the rising violence has significantly undermined the public’s trust in the judicial system. Furthermore, disillusionment with an unresponsive government as well as fear of gang reprisals deters local leaders and citizens from working together with law enforcement officials to improve safety in their own communities.
Coupled with more than a year of citizen demonstrations to demand accountability, the Unidos por la Justicia (United for Justice) program, funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), was launched to help address the underlying systemic failings that perpetuate high levels of crime and impunity. The Unidos por la Justicia works with local partners to improve citizen engagement with the security and justice sectors; enhance the efficiency of the judicial system; and increase the effectiveness of community police.
Building on 20 years of experience leading projects in Honduras, DAI combines best practices from previous rule-of-law programs along with a “place-based” systems approach. New initiatives are first tested at the neighborhood level in target communities with highly concentrated hotspots of crime, and resulting lessons and evidence then used to replicate successes in other municipalities and promote wider institutional reform.
RELATED CONTENT:
This project assists six conflict-affected areas in Mindanao, Philippines: Cotabato City, Marawi City, Zamboanga City, Isabela City, Southern Basilan, Jolo, and its surrounding environs.
Read More