The Haitian Online Media Association (AHML) launched the “Civic Space” project on April 26, aiming to promote media accountability and improve information reliability ahead of upcoming elections in Haiti. The initiative is part of the Peacebuilding Fund program, which seeks to expand and protect a safe civic space for Haitian youth.
The launch ceremony took place at the El Rancho hotel, bringing together key figures including Minister of Culture and Communication Emmanuel Ménard, UN Human Rights representative Arnaud Royer, Communication Secretary Patrick Chrispin, and other civil society actors.
According to Marie Mika Achille, the project aims to strengthen the involvement of media professionals, influencers, and young people in building a responsible information ecosystem during a critical electoral transition period. It also seeks to support journalists, especially those working online.
Implemented in collaboration with the United Nations and funded by the Peacebuilding Fund, the project aligns with the Journalism Trust Initiative (JTI), an international standard developed by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) to promote ethical and transparent journalism.
Key components include drafting a code of good practices for journalists, conducting studies on Haiti’s media landscape, and strengthening the capacities of media professionals. The project also plans to establish self-regulation mechanisms in at least three community media outlets.
Minister Emmanuel Ménard expressed support for the initiative, while Arnaud Royer emphasized its importance in fostering a more reliable information environment and reducing polarization and hate speech.
Inclusion is also a central focus, with efforts to make media content accessible to people with disabilities through tools such as subtitles and screen-reader compatibility.
Following the initial sessions, further consultations will take place across different regions. The project is expected to run for eight months, ending in December 2026.
