Approval of the Security Council for a New Mission in Haiti

Just two days before the end of the mandate for the Multinational Security Support Mission (MMAS) in Haiti, the UN Security Council held a crucial meeting to address a new draft resolution. This text suggests transforming the current mission into a Gang Suppression Force, along with the establishment of an additional support office in the country.

The draft, promoted by the United States and Panama, received backing with 12 votes in favor, along with three abstentions from China, Russia, and Pakistan. If approved, this plan will allow UN member states to collaborate more closely with the Haitian government for an initial period of 12 months. The new force would be composed of an authorized maximum of 5,550 personnel, including 5,500 uniformed members and 50 civilians.

The U.S. representative emphasized the “extreme gravity” of the situation caused by gang violence in Haiti and stressed that the international community has failed to deploy a mission that adequately addresses this challenge. Michael Waltz recognized the crucial role of the MMAS in preventing the total collapse of the Haitian government, although he warned it had lacked the necessary resources to carry out its mission effectively.

With the new approach, Waltz highlighted that the international community is taking responsibility and sharing the burden. He also urged countries to make voluntary contributions to cover the expenses of this new force. He underscored that the resolution also tasks Haitians with developing a plan to take on their security responsibilities.

From the Panamanian delegation, there was optimism regarding the adoption of the resolution, stating that the Haitian people “could not wait any longer” for a solution. Regional and international support for this initiative was highlighted, reaffirming the Security Council’s commitment to a mission that has the necessary resources to tackle gangs in the country.

On the other hand, Russia voiced criticisms through its representative, who justified his abstention by pointing out the call from Haitian authorities not to obstruct the process. However, he warned of the risks involved in what he termed a “dangerous and poorly conceived adventure.” Vassily Nebenzia stated that, while the urgency of the situation is undeniable, it is problematic to repeat past mistakes, including issues of funding and the lack of effective evaluation of the current mission. He also stressed the need to address the underlying causes of the crisis in Haiti, such as illegal arms trafficking and foreign interference, advocating for strengthening the Haitian state’s capacity to restore internal order and establish sustainable development.