UK Urges UN Security Council: Haiti Must Prioritise Security Over Political Stagnation in 2024

The security landscape in Haiti remains alarmingly precarious, as gangs continue to instil fear within communities through their brutal acts of violence. These criminal organisations aim to intimidate individuals, undermine governmental authority, and deny millions of Haitians the essential security and stability they desperately seek.

Renewed Mandates and International Cooperation

In response to this dire situation, the Council has opted to extend the mandate of the Gang Suppression Force and the UN Sanctions Regime. The United Kingdom expresses its gratitude to the United States and the Standing Group of Partners for their efforts to enhance and fortify the Gang Suppression Force.

These initiatives are especially crucial in light of the unacceptable levels of violence, including recent attacks on Salvadorian members of the Gang Suppression Force. Significant progress has been made in supporting Haitian authorities in restoring state authority and expanding security beyond Port-au-Prince. This includes the establishment of an operational presence outside the capital, the strengthening of the Gang Suppression Force Headquarters, and the deployment of resources to bolster local capacity.

As operations broaden, maintaining close collaboration with Haitian authorities and adhering to the human rights compliance framework of the Gang Suppression Force will be paramount.

Addressing Sexual and Gender-Based Violence

Another pressing issue is the rampant sexual and gender-based violence affecting many in Haiti. The statistics are harrowing; nearly 700 women and girls reported incidents of rape by gangs during July and August of this year, with a staggering 87 per cent of these cases involving collective rape. Such violence is both shocking and utterly unacceptable.

The United Kingdom acknowledges the strides made by Haitian authorities, with support from the UN Integrated Office in Haiti and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), in enhancing reporting and response mechanisms for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence. Coordination platforms established in six police stations have successfully identified and referred 151 cases of sexual violence to law enforcement, including 96 cases involving minors.

However, it is clear that much more needs to be accomplished in this arena.

Promoting Inclusive Electoral Participation

As the nation prepares for upcoming elections, the United Kingdom commends the Haitian authorities for their efforts to foster broader participation in the electoral process. Initiatives aimed at facilitating voter registration and reducing barriers to participation represent vital steps towards achieving inclusive elections.

Nevertheless, it is critical that these inclusivity efforts do not compromise accountability. Adjustments to candidate eligibility criteria should not undermine essential safeguards designed to prevent individuals who may exploit violence, coercion, or criminality from gaining influence within Haiti’s democratic institutions.

We strongly encourage Haitian authorities to ensure that eligibility requirements uphold the integrity and credibility of the electoral process, allowing all eligible Haitians to take part.

The Path to Lasting Security and Stability

A sustained improvement in security is fundamental to protecting the populace and creating an environment conducive to credible elections. Those with influence over the gangs must leverage that power to ensure disarmament and an end to the cycle of violence.

The Council, along with the Gang Suppression Force partners, and crucially, the Haitian authorities, must maintain momentum to ensure that operational achievements translate into enduring security for Haitian communities. The pursuit of security, accountability, and inclusive political participation must progress in tandem.

Special Representative, you have requested our ongoing support for these objectives. From the United Kingdom, you will receive it.