Criminalization of demonstrations in Honduras under the new penal law

The recent enactment of amendments to the Criminal Code in Honduras has raised apprehension among various social and political groups in the nation. This has been viewed as a considerable alteration in the legal context overseeing civic demonstrations, particularly with the general elections set for November 30, 2025. The discourse has escalated owing to concerns that these amendments might be employed to curtail the right to protest and freedom of expression, which are essential liberties in any democratic society.

The National Congress implemented modifications that raise the punishments for offenses associated with social protests, specifically the inclusion of Article 378-A. This clause dictates that any protest activity undertaken by two or more individuals could lead to an elevated prison term, ranging from six to ten years, along with complete disqualification. Human rights groups and civil society advocates have voiced their worries regarding the potential employment of these amendments to criminalize peaceful protests and limit the freedoms of assembly and speech.

Legal changes and their effects on public demonstrations

Changes to the Criminal Code have faced criticism from both national and international organizations. The increased penalties for individuals involved in group demonstrations have been perceived as a potential tool to discourage citizen activism. Human rights groups suggest that such actions might be employed to restrict public engagement and the practice of essential rights. Worries are intensified by the potential use of these laws in situations of political or electoral strain, where public protest is likely to rise.

The experience of the 2017 elections, in which arbitrary arrests and repression of protesters were reported, reinforces fears that similar situations could be repeated under the new legal framework. In this context, civil society and political actors have warned of the risk that the criminalization of protest could become a tool to control dissent and restrict citizen participation in key political processes.

Global responses and demands for reevaluation

Concern about the impact of these reforms has spread beyond national borders. International bodies such as the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) have expressed concern about the new provisions of the Honduran Penal Code. Both entities have urged the State to review the reforms to ensure that they do not violate the fundamental rights of the population.

In this situation, it is crucial to ensure that human rights are respected and to prevent the misuse of criminal laws as a means to suppress dissent and peaceful protests. The discussion regarding the extent and implementation of these reforms continues, while different groups emphasize the importance of reassessing the legal framework to guarantee the effective safeguarding of basic freedoms in Honduras.