The U.N. Security Council has extended the Kenya-led mission to combat gang violence in Haiti until October 2025. This operation, initially established in response to a request from Haitian authorities, aims to support the Haitian National Police. The vote reflects international concern and solidarity with Haiti amidst a backdrop of escalating violence following the 2021 presidential assassination.
The United Nations (U.N.) Security Council has unanimously voted to extend the mandate of a Kenya-led mission aimed at addressing severe gang violence in Haiti. This decision comes in light of the increasing violence and instability that has plagued the nation since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021, resulting in gangs controlling approximately 80 percent of the capital city, Port-au-Prince. In response to formal requests from Haitian authorities, the U.N. Security Council approved the Multinational Security Support Mission, which is designed to collaborate with the Haitian National Police to combat gang activity, restore order, and create a secure environment conducive to democratic elections. The mission is empowered with temporary executive policing authority, including the ability to arrest and detain individuals. The Security Council adopted a short resolution on Monday extending the mission until October 2, 2025. The resolution encourages the swift deployment of the mission and seeks additional voluntary contributions and support. U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield remarked that the unanimous vote conveys a strong message of solidarity with the Haitian people, emphasizing the global commitment to restoring security and stability in Haiti.
Gang violence in Haiti significantly escalated following the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021. Since then, armed gangs have increasingly taken control over vast areas of Port-au-Prince, prompting a humanitarian crisis characterized by widespread violence, displacement, and insecurity. As local communities struggle to reclaim their neighborhoods, vigilante groups have emerged in response to the deteriorating situation. The U.N. Security Council’s decision to extend the Kenya-led mission is an attempt to stabilize the country and support the Haitian National Police in reestablishing law and order and facilitating future democratic processes.
The U.N. Security Council’s commitment to extend the Kenya-led mission in Haiti demonstrates the global community’s recognition of the dire situation in the country. While the initiative aims to restore security and provide assistance to local authorities, challenges remain, particularly in terms of resource allocation and troop deployment. The reluctance to transition the operation into a formal U.N. peacekeeping mission underscores the complexities involved in addressing Haiti’s ongoing struggles against gang violence. Continued international support and financial contributions will be essential for the long-term success of the mission and the eventual stabilization of Haiti.
Original Source: www.newsweek.com
