April 4, 2025

Contact: media@haitianbridge.org, info@haitianbridge.org

SAN FRANCISCO – Haitian Bridge Alliance is heartbroken to learn of the passing of Mario Joseph, a titan of justice and one of Haiti’s most fearless and respected human rights attorneys. His death marks an immense loss for the Haitian people and for the global movement for justice and accountability.

For decades, Mr. Joseph led the Bureau des Avocats Internationaux (BAI) with unmatched courage and commitment, fighting tirelessly on behalf of Haiti’s most vulnerable communities. He challenged systemic injustice in Haiti’s judiciary, took on corrupt power structures, and brought landmark cases before international bodies, including the United Nations and the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights. His advocacy extended from the courtroom to the streets, always standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the people of Haiti in their pursuit of dignity and liberation.

“Mario Joseph was not just a lawyer. He was a warrior for justice and an unwavering voice for the oppressed,” said Guerline Jozef, Director of Haitian Bridge Alliance. “His fearless pursuit of truth, even when it came at great personal risk, serves as a beacon of hope for those of us continuing the struggle for human rights in Haiti and beyond.”

Mr. Joseph’s work was instrumental in exposing the role of foreign powers in Haiti’s suffering, holding institutions accountable for their complicity in human rights violations—from the UN’s role in introducing cholera to Haiti, to the targeting of political dissidents, to abuse by international peacekeepers. His life’s work was rooted in the belief that Haiti’s sovereignty, democracy, and justice system must be grounded in the will of the Haitian people—not dictated by foreign interference or the interests of the elites.

We extend our deepest condolences to Mr. Joseph’s family, the entire BAI team, and to all those around the world inspired by his courage. May his life and legacy continue to ignite our collective fight for justice and human dignity.