The United Nations Security Council unanimously voted to extend the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti until October 2025, in response to rampant gang violence that has escalated since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021. The mission aims to bolster the Haitian National Police and restore stability amidst significant casualties and displacements. Despite calls for a formal U.N. peacekeeping mission, this request remains sidelined as some nations express opposition based on previous failed peacekeeping efforts.
The United Nations Security Council convened on Monday and unanimously agreed to extend the mandate of the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support Mission aimed at combating the alarming rise of gang violence in Haiti. This escalation of violence can be traced back to the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moïse in 2021, perpetrated by foreign mercenaries, resulting in paramilitary groups gaining control over an estimated 80 percent of Port-au-Prince. The worsening situation has prompted the establishment of local vigilante groups as citizens strive to reclaim security in their neighborhoods. In accordance with a formal request from Haiti, the U.N. Security Council’s resolution extends the mission until October 2, 2025, empowering it to assist the Haitian National Police in law enforcement endeavors, restoring order, and paving the way for democratic elections. This mission has been granted temporary executive policing authority, including powers of arrest and detention. Furthermore, the recent resolution encourages acceleration of the mission’s deployment and solicits additional voluntary support. U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield expressed that this unanimous vote conveys a robust message of solidarity to the people of Haiti, affirming global commitment to restoring the nation’s security and stability. Amid this turmoil, the U.N. reported at least 1,379 casualties due to violence from April to June and over 428 kidnappings, with approximately 700,000 individuals displaced as criminal gangs maintain their grip over Port-au-Prince. Despite the resolute actions taken, requests from Haiti’s government for the transformation of the mission into a formal U.N. peacekeeping operation were not addressed in the latest resolution. Notably, the proposal to initiate discussions regarding a U.N. peacekeeping force raised by Edgard Leblanc Fils, the president of Haiti’s transitional presidential council, was eliminated from the resolution by China and Russia. Both nations cited the failures of previous peacekeeping efforts in Haiti, emphasizing that the current conditions are not conducive for such an initiative. Despite these challenges, Leblanc acknowledged the contributions of the Kentucky-led mission while underlining the extensive work required to restore lasting peace, as countless Haitians continue to experience fear and instability in their lives.
The situation in Haiti has escalated dramatically following the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021, which unleashed widespread gang violence in the country. With nearly 80 percent of Port-au-Prince under gang control, local communities have formed vigilante groups in an attempt to regain safety and order. The U.N.’s response is in direct alignment with Haiti’s request for international assistance, culminating in the approval of a Kenya-led mission designed to restore law and order and facilitate the progression towards democratic governance. This ongoing violence and the dire humanitarian impact—such as displacement and kidnappings—underscore the urgent need for effective intervention.
The extension of the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support Mission aims to address the severe gang violence plaguing Haiti, which has resulted in significant loss of life and mass displacement. Although the mission has been provided with temporary policing powers, there remains a critical shortfall in military personnel and funding, raising concerns about the sustainability of the intervention. The international community’s response, particularly from the U.S., underscores a commitment to aid Haiti; however, the continued caution from nations like China and Russia regarding more extensive U.N. involvement highlights divergent views on how to effectively stabilize the region. Overall, while the extended mission signals commitment and support, substantial work lies ahead to foster lasting peace and security in Haiti.
Original Source: www.newsweek.com
