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As Haiti grapples with spiraling gang violence and a worsening humanitarian crisis, the UN Security Council on Tuesday emphasized the urgent need for the deployment of the Multinational Security Support Mission. Speakers urged swift action to restore order, enforce sanctions, and foster political dialogue, as the deteriorating security situation threatens to derail the country’s efforts to hold elections and restore democracy.
In her address, María Isabel Salvador, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH), painted a grim picture of the escalating violence. She noted that gangs continue to exert control over large areas, engaging in daily acts of violence, including killings, sexual assault, and mutilation. Vigilante groups, such as the Bwa Kale movement, have also emerged, complicating the security landscape by lynching suspected gang members.
Salvador highlighted the importance of inclusive political dialogue to overcome deep divisions among Haiti’s political factions. She expressed hope that the deployment of the non-UN Multinational Security Support Mission, authorized by the Security Council earlier this month, would stabilize the situation and create the necessary conditions for elections.
Rising Violence and Urgent Humanitarian Needs
Ghada Fathi Waly, Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), underscored the role of illegal arms trafficking in fueling the violence. She pointed out that sophisticated firearms, primarily smuggled in from the United States, are empowering gangs to maintain control over key areas and infrastructure. Waly stressed the need for a comprehensive regulatory framework to curb the flow of illicit weapons into Haiti and strengthen border control.
The humanitarian toll of the violence is staggering, with nearly 200,000 people displaced and critical infrastructure overrun by gangs. Catherine Russell, Executive Director of UNICEF, emphasized the dire humanitarian situation, noting that half of Haiti’s population requires aid. Despite these urgent needs, only 25% of the $720 million needed for the UN’s Humanitarian Response Plan has been raised. Russell called on international donors to prioritize flexible humanitarian funding to sustain critical services, particularly for children who face malnutrition and disease.
Calls for International Support and Political Stability
During the meeting, several Security Council members highlighted the need for stronger international support for Haiti. Brazil’s representative, who serves as Council President for October, emphasized the importance of combining security assistance with development aid to address the root causes of violence and instability. He called for quick agreement on the rules of engagement for the Multinational Mission to enable its rapid deployment.
The representative of the United Arab Emirates warned against “Haiti fatigue” and called for a comprehensive approach that addresses security alongside political and economic challenges. France’s delegate welcomed the renewal of Haiti’s sanctions regime and advocated for expanding sanctions to include individuals undermining peace efforts.
Jamaica, speaking on behalf of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), reiterated its commitment to supporting Haiti through dialogue and mediation efforts. The Caribbean nation has been instrumental in facilitating discussions between Haitian stakeholders to restore governance, security, and democracy.
As the Security Council debates Haiti’s future, the deployment of the Multinational Security Support Mission remains a key focus. The mission’s success in stabilizing the security situation will be critical for creating the conditions necessary for credible elections and a return to democratic governance. At the same time, sustained humanitarian support is needed to address the urgent needs of the Haitian population, who continue to suffer from the dual impact of violence and deprivation.
The international community, including regional partners, is being urged to act quickly to help Haiti break free from its cycle of violence and instability. While the Security Council’s resolutions and sanctions are an important step, the path to restoring peace and order will require coordinated efforts and long-term commitment.
