Why are sanctions imposed?

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has imposed sanctions in relation to Haiti. The sanctions were initially imposed in 2022 in the context of high levels of gang violence and other criminal activities undermining the peace, stability and security of Haiti and its region.

Australia implements the UNSC sanctions concerning Haiti by incorporating them into Australian law.

What is prohibited by the Haiti sanctions framework?

The Haiti sanctions framework imposes the following sanctions measures:

Restrictions on supplying arms or related matériel

It is prohibited to do the following without a sanctions permit:

• directly or indirectly supply, sell or transfer arms or related matériel to Haiti
• provide technical assistance, training, financial or other assistance if those services relate to
  • military activities, or
  • the provision, maintenance or use of any arms or related matériel.

Arms or related matériel includes, but is not limited to, weapons, ammunition, military vehicles and equipment, paramilitary equipment, and spare parts for any of those things. While each case will be considered individually, goods on the Defence and Strategic Goods List are likely to be considered arms or related matériel. Depending on the context, end user and end use, other goods may also be considered arms or related matériel.

Restrictions on providing assets to designated persons or entities

It is prohibited to directly or indirectly make an asset available to, or for the benefit of, a designated person or entity.

Restrictions on dealing with the assets of designated persons or entities (requirement to freeze assets)

It is prohibited to use or deal with an asset, or allow or facilitate another person to use or deal with an asset, if the asset is owned or controlled by a designated person or entity (the assets are ‘frozen’ and cannot be used or dealt with). The prohibition on ‘dealing’ with assets includes using, selling or moving assets. An 'asset' includes an asset or property of any kind, whether tangible or intangible, movable or immovable.

Go to the Consolidated List to search the names of designated persons and entities.

If you become aware that you are holding an asset of a designated person or entity, you are required to freeze (hold) that asset and notify the AFP as soon as possible.

Travel bans

All persons designated for the Haiti sanctions framework are prohibited from transiting through or entering Australia.

Sanctions Permits

The Minister for Foreign Affairs may grant a sanctions permit to allow an activity that would otherwise be prohibited under this framework provided the activity meets specific criteria.

The table below provides a general guide to relevant criteria. You should get your own legal advice if you think your proposed activity is affected by sanctions and may meet the criteria for a permit. Go to Sanctions Permits for information on permits, including how to apply.

The Minister may need to notify or receive the approval of the UNSC Haiti Sanctions Committee (the Committee) before granting a sanctions permit. Where required, the Australian Sanctions Office will assist the Foreign Minister to notify or seek approval from the UNSC as part of the permit application process.

Relevant legislation

The relevant legislation for the Haiti sanctions regime includes the following: 

• Charter of the United Nations Act 1945
• Charter of the United Nations (Dealing with Assets) Regulations 2008
• Charter of the United Nations (Sanctions – Haiti) Regulations 2025

Other resources

• UNSC Resolutions relating to the Haiti sanctions framework
• UNSC Haiti Sanctions Committee
• DFAT country page for Haiti

Where can I get more information?

Australia and sanctions webpage.

Enquiries can be made to DFAT by emailing sanctions@dfat.gov.au

DFAT maintains a mailing list for people interested in receiving updates on Australian sanctions laws.