Our Work

Citizen Security

Honduras, one of the most violent nations in the world, serves as a key transit point for drug trafficking and has more gang members than all other Central American countries combined. In response to security challenges in Honduras and across the region, the U.S. and the governments of Central America have joined together to improve citizen security and rule of law, through the Central America Regional Security Initiative (CARSI). USAID’s social prevention and rule of law programs help address the serious citizen security threat from narco-trafficking and gang violence. USAID has committed more than $130 million to security efforts over the last five years to work with municipalities, community police, at risk youth, and criminal courts. 

Democracy and Governance

Having recently emerged from its worst political crisis in 25 years, Honduran democracy and governance are very weak and a large number of citizens lack confidence in their institutions. USAID strengthens democratic institutions, rule of law, and citizen participation in local and national government.  Programs broaden the participation of traditionally marginalized groups and reinforce support for democracy and civilian rule.

Economic Growth

More than 60 percent of Hondurans are highly vulnerable to food insecurity, and the country is one of the most vulnerable in the world to natural disasters and climate change. USAID’s Feed the Future program increases the incomes of poor rural households by linking small farmers to market opportunities.

Education

Education in Honduras is characterized by high dropout and repetition rates, low achievement scores, and insufficient alternative education opportunities. Through the Education for All-Fast Track Initiative, USAID emphasizes learning opportunities for at-risk youth, contributes to quality improvements in the formal education system, and strengthens education committees at the local level.

Health

Although Honduras has made great gains in improving the health of the population in recent years, fertility, maternal and infant mortality, and malnutrition rates remain high, especially in rural areas. In addition, HIV disproportionately affects high-risk groups with prevalence rates ranging from 4 to 10 percent. USAID’s health program works with the Honduran Government and local organizations to address the wide-ranging needs of its people.