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Leslie Voltaire, head of Haiti’s Presidential Transitional Council (CPT), along with a delegation, is participating in high-level discussions in Colombia and Washington, D.C., aimed at addressing pressing issues around climate change, national security, and democratic reform. Voltaire’s presence at these events underscores Haiti’s commitment to both environmental protection and political stability, as the country navigates a challenging period of transition.
COP 16: Environmental Advocacy in Colombia
In response to an invitation from Colombian President Gustavo Petro, Voltaire joins global leaders at COP 16 in Colombia to address urgent environmental issues. During this gathering, he will have the opportunity to reaffirm Haiti’s commitment to sustainable environmental practices and to seek international support for countries most vulnerable to climate change. According to Haiti Libre, Voltaire intends to advocate for increased global solidarity, highlighting the unique climate challenges faced by Haiti and other vulnerable nations in the Caribbean.
This year’s COP 16, aimed at establishing concrete agreements to safeguard biodiversity and manage environmental resources sustainably, offers Haiti a chance to strengthen its role in global environmental diplomacy. Voltaire’s agenda will likely include calls for increased funding and resources to protect fragile ecosystems, mitigate climate-related disasters, and build resilience for Haiti’s people and infrastructure.
Additionally, Voltaire is scheduled to meet with United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres in Colombia. This dialogue will address Haiti’s ongoing security and humanitarian challenges, emphasizing the necessity for strengthened international support to promote stability and reconstruction efforts.
High-Level Meetings with the OAS in Washington, D.C.
Following COP 16, Voltaire’s delegation will participate in a three-day series of meetings hosted by the Organization of American States (OAS) in Washington, D.C., from October 28-30, 2024. This gathering includes representatives from the Venice Commission and Haitian officials, focusing on fortifying security measures, preparing for future elections, and establishing a legal framework to support democratic governance.
Aligned with the OAS Permanent Council Resolution CP/RES.1237, adopted in November 2023, these meetings aim to build on the Venice Commission’s June 2024 recommendations for Haiti’s constitutional and legislative reforms. Key stakeholders from Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council, the Provisional Electoral Council, and other Haitian institutions will engage in sessions designed to promote peaceful elections, ensure safe voting conditions in conflict zones, and expand electoral rights for Haitians abroad.
This OAS-led effort underscores the international community’s dedication to Haiti’s democratic trajectory, with funding support from Canada, France, and the United States. Emphasizing Haitian-led initiatives, the OAS and Venice Commission highlight the importance of collaborative solutions and knowledge exchange to foster regional stability.
Reinforcing Haiti’s Democratic and Environmental Commitments
The dual-pronged diplomatic approach in Colombia and Washington signals Haiti’s determination to address both environmental and political concerns on the global stage. By advancing discussions on climate resilience and democratic reforms, Haiti’s transitional leaders seek to secure international support for sustainable development and political stability, acknowledging the pivotal role of global partnerships in navigating these pressing challenges.
