Political competition remains open, but democratic quality is constrained by entrenched clientelism, limited judicial independence and growing anti-immigrant and ultranationalist rhetoric. Haitian migrants and their descendants remain largely excluded from political participation, while incidents of excessive force during immigration raids and the closure of civic spaces underscore weaknesses in the rule of law. Media dependence on state advertising continues to encourage self-censorship.
Economic performance remains robust, driven by tourism, remittances and sound macroeconomic policies. However, inequality persists, and the collapse of the 2024 fiscal reform prompted spending cuts and renewed strain on the underfunded electricity sector. Social assistance remains inadequate to address structural disparities.
Governance reforms have improved resource efficiency, yet nepotism, patronage and limited digital modernization hinder administrative performance. High-profile corruption cases persist despite advances in the prosecution of office abuse, and recurring police brutality highlights continuing institutional fragilities.
