Attachments
Context
February was marked by political and institutional developments with implications for protection and displacement dynamics. The Governments of Honduras and the United States reported economic cooperation agreements aimed at facilitating bilateral trade, while authorities from the National Migration Institute and the United States Embassy strengthened technical cooperation on migration management and border security.
During the month, the United States ended Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Honduran nationals, which the National Autonomous University of Honduras estimated could reduce remittances by up to USD 170 million, affecting approximately 30,000 beneficiaries. At the regional level, Nicaragua reinstated visa requirements for Cuban nationals, potentially affecting movements through Honduras.
Institutional discussions on internal displacement and security frameworks continued. The National Commissioner for Human Rights (CONADEH) urged the approval of the Regulation of the Law on Internal Displacement and the allocation of financial resources for its implementation, underscoring the need to operationalise the legal framework. The Government also announced the development of a new Anti-Extortion Law as part of broader measures to address extortion nationwide, while civil society and official sources reported that over 300,000 households are affected by this crime. In parallel, a State Modernisation Decree aimed at restructuring public institutions was announced.
Violence and insecurity remained key protection concerns.
Reports indicated increasing illicit crop activity following the seizure of coca plants in northern Honduras, alongside continued forced recruitment in educational settings and land disputes in northern coastal areas, contributing to internal displacement.
Weather-related events also affected vulnerable populations. Authorities issued alerts in northern departments due to cold fronts and heavy rainfall, while climate variability continued to impact food security and livelihoods, particularly among small-scale farmers.
Women, children and LGBTIQ+ persons continued to face elevated protection risks. Official sources reported 36 violent deaths of women since the beginning of the year, while civil society organisations highlighted high levels of violence and underreporting. Child protection actors reported over 50 children and adolescents killed during the first 50 days of the year, with forced recruitment identified as a key driver of displacement. Organisations also reported increased stigmatisation of LGBTIQ+ persons, alongside documented cases of violence and human rights violations.