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Guatemala has officially joined the Multinational Security Support Mission (MMAS), committing to deploy a Military Police contingent to assist Haiti in addressing its ongoing security and humanitarian challenges. The formal announcement was made on December 12, 2024, during a protocol event at the Organization of American States (OAS) in Washington, D.C.
The Guatemalan Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Minex) highlighted the country’s dedication to regional cooperation and peacebuilding as key motivations for its participation. Guatemala’s support aligns with the broader framework of UN Security Council Resolution 2699 (2023), which calls for collective international action to stabilize Haiti.
Claudia Escobar, Guatemala’s ambassador to the OAS, emphasized the importance of fostering security in Haiti to restore its democratic institutions. “Guatemala is committed to supporting Haiti’s journey toward stability and ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections,” Escobar said during the event.
Guatemala is the fifth nation to officially back the MMAS initiative, alongside Jamaica, Bahamas, El Salvador, and Belize. This coalition aims to bolster Haiti’s government and the Haitian National Police (PNH) in responding to the country’s pressing security needs.
Guatemala’s commitment reflects its longstanding reputation as a proponent of peaceful international collaboration. Minex credited the joint efforts of its Defense Ministry, permanent missions to the UN and OAS, and embassies abroad for securing the necessary framework for its participation.
Guatemala’s involvement reaffirms its historical responsibility toward Haiti and other nations in the Americas. During the 79th UN General Assembly in September, President Bernardo Arévalo expressed his government’s pledge to aid efforts to restore peace and stability in Haiti.
The Multinational Security Support Mission (MMAS) has steadily gained international backing, with five countries officially supporting the initiative. Jamaica was the first to join, submitting its Instrument of Adhesion on September 20, 2024, followed shortly by the Bahamas on September 26, 2024.
El Salvador signed the agreement on August 3, 2024, signaling its commitment to the mission. Belize ratified its participation on November 27, 2024, further strengthening the coalition. Most recently, Guatemala formalized its involvement with an Instrument of Adhesion on December 6, 2024. Together, these nations are working to address Haiti’s urgent security and stability challenges.
