This week, Honduras’ former president Juan Orlando Hernández (2014-2022) was arrested at the U.S. government’s request on drug trafficking charges. If Honduras accepts the request, Hernández will stand trial in the United States.

Hernández’s arrest is a distressing sign of how organized crime has penetrated the highest levels of government in Honduras. “Organized crime, drug trafficking, and corruption has put our country in anguish, provoked pain and distrust in citizens, and damaged our democracy,” states ASJ-Honduras’ Executive Director Carlos Hernández. 

ASJ is committed to helping repair broken systems for the common good. The regressions in the fight against corruption and impunity and the reluctance of the political elite to address institutional weaknesses have resulted in the Honduran government not applying justice impartially and independently. Over the last decade, ASJ has called for policies to remove organized crime money from political campaigns, conducted investigations into the use of public funds, and supported the strengthening of justice systems.

This week’s events underscore the importance of strengthening institutions to truly serve Hondurans, especially those living in vulnerable conditions. ASJ is focused on working in collaboration with civil society and the new administration for this restoration.

We join calls for stronger rule of law, transparency, and accountability to create a Honduras where no one is above the law. These proceedings also point to the role of the U.S. government and people in standing with Hondurans for justice and peace, from understanding how U.S. demand for drugs contributes to violence in Honduras to supporting local civil society in their calls for transparency. We invite justice-seekers everywhere to join us in recommitting to the long-term work for a more just society that protects the life and dignity of every Honduran.

The Association for a More Just Society (ASJ-US) is a U.S.-based non-profit that supports its partner organization ASJ-Honduras’ promotion of peace and justice in Honduras. ASJ-US shares its experiences in Honduras with global communities of justice seekers and seeks to inspire others to pursue justice in their own contexts. 

For inquiries, contact ASJ-US at info@asj-us.org

In light of the ex-president's arrest, you might have questions about how Honduras reached this moment, what extradition means, and what the future holds. Join ASJ leadership in Honduras on Thursday February 24th at 12:30 P.M. EST for a webinar on recent events, the long work of repairing broken systems, and accountability for the Honduran people.