Alix Didier Fils-Aimé met with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican on Saturday, as Haiti continues to face escalating gang violence, political instability, and a worsening humanitarian crisis.
Following the private audience with the pontiff, Fils-Aimé also held discussions with Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher.
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In a statement, the Holy See Press Office said the talks were cordial and underscored the longstanding relationship between Haiti and the Holy See.
The discussions focused on the Catholic Church’s role in Haiti during what the Vatican described as a particularly difficult period for the country. Officials also addressed Haiti’s socio-political crisis, humanitarian challenges, migration, and the deteriorating security situation.
The Vatican emphasized the importance of continued support from the international community to help Haiti overcome its current difficulties.
Gang Violence Continues to Grip Haiti
Haiti has been mired in instability since the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse.
Armed gangs now control large sections of the capital, Port-au-Prince, severely disrupting daily life and weakening state institutions, including the Catholic Church.
The insecurity has displaced hundreds of thousands of Haitians and worsened already dire shortages of food, medicine, and other basic necessities.
Elections Planned for August
General elections are scheduled for August 30 and are expected to include the selection of a new president, members of Parliament, and municipal leaders.
If held, they would be Haiti’s first national elections since 2016.
However, doubts remain about whether the vote can be conducted under current conditions.
Earlier this year, Pierre-André Dumas warned that the elections may not be “transparent” or “democratic” given the country’s ongoing violence and institutional breakdown.
Vatican Maintains Support
The meeting between Fils-Aimé and Pope Leo XIV highlights the Vatican’s continued concern for Haiti, where the Catholic Church remains one of the country’s most influential institutions.
As Haiti struggles to restore order and prepare for elections, church leaders and international partners continue to call for urgent action to address both the humanitarian emergency and the security crisis.
