The Ongoing Crisis in Haiti
The security landscape in Haiti remains alarmingly precarious, as gangs persist in their reign of terror, inflicting severe violence upon communities. This chaos not only seeks to coerce individuals but also aims to undermine state authority, depriving millions of Haitians of the security and stability they desperately crave.
In light of this dire situation, the international community has taken steps to reinforce the mandate of the Gang Suppression Force (GSF) 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 expand and bolster the capabilities of the GSF.
Despite confronting unacceptable levels of violence—such as the recent attacks on Salvadorian members of the GSF—significant strides have been made to assist Haitian authorities in re-establishing state authority and extending security beyond Port-au-Prince. This includes the establishment of an operational presence outside the capital, the enhancement of the GSF Headquarters, and additional deployments aimed at strengthening local capacities.
As these operations broaden, it is imperative that they remain closely coordinated with Haitian authorities, and that adherence to the GSF’s human rights compliance framework remains a central tenet of their approach.
The Alarming Rise of Gender-Based Violence
One of the most distressing aspects of the current crisis is the prevalence of sexual and gender-based violence in Haiti. Recent statistics reveal that nearly 700 women and girls reported incidents of rape attributed to gang activity during July and August of this year, with a staggering 87 per cent of these cases involving collective rape. Such figures are both shocking and wholly unacceptable.
The United Kingdom acknowledges the progress made by Haitian authorities, with assistance 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 the police, including 96 that involved minors.
Nevertheless, it is clear that there is still much work to be done to address this critical issue effectively.
Electoral Participation and Accountability
As efforts to prepare for elections move forward, the United Kingdom welcomes the initiatives being undertaken by Haitian authorities to encourage broader participation in the electoral process. Implementing measures to facilitate voter registration and reduce barriers to participation is a vital step toward achieving inclusive elections.
However, it is essential that this inclusion does not compromise accountability. Any amendments to candidate eligibility requirements must not diminish crucial safeguards against the involvement of individuals who may exploit violence, coercion, or criminality to gain influence within Haiti’s democratic institutions.
The Haitian authorities must ensure that eligibility criteria maintain the integrity and credibility of the electoral process, thereby enabling all eligible citizens to participate meaningfully.
Building a Secure Future for Haiti
Achieving a lasting improvement in security is fundamental to safeguarding the population and creating the requisite conditions for credible elections. Those wielding influence over the gangs must be compelled to disarm and cease their violent activities.
Furthermore, it is imperative that the Council, the partners of the Gang Suppression Force, and, crucially, the Haitian authorities, sustain their momentum to ensure that operational achievements translate into enduring security for Haitian communities.
In conclusion, the intertwined goals of security, accountability, and inclusive political participation must progress in tandem. The Special Representative has called for our ongoing support in these endeavours, and the United Kingdom stands ready to provide it.