S/PV.8969 Security Council

In accordance with rule 37 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite the representative of Haiti to participate in this meeting. In accordance with rule 39 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite Ms. Helen La Lime, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Haiti and Head of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti, to participate in this meeting. The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda. I wish to draw the attention of Council members to document S/2022/117, which contains the report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti. I now give the floor to Ms. La Lime. Ms. La Lime: It is an honour to provide the Council once again with an update on the situation in Haiti, which remains fraught and highly polarized, despite some signs of progress. In the past month, Prime Minister Ariel Henry has continued to engage with actors from across the political spectrum to further enlarge consensus around a single, unified vision that would lead to the restoration of fully functional, democratically elected institutions. Negotiations among proponents of competing transition governance models have now reached the stage where success will be determined by their collective willingness to compromise. The contours of a common vision shared by all will ultimately depend on Haitian stakeholders placing the national interests above their own aspirations and being flexible on the finer point of the process. The new Government unveiled on 24 November, the most tangible result of those efforts to date, appears to have somewhat appeased tensions, as evidenced by the calm observed on 7 February, the day on which the late President Jovenel Moïse’s term would have officially ended. While the publication of a revised electoral calendar is still forthcoming, momentum does seem to be building around an effort to form an inclusive, credible and effective provisional electoral council that would inspire confidence and trust among a critical mass of national stakeholders. As we speak, gang violence continues to plunge major urban centres into lawlessness and grief. Criminal armed groups have a strong hold on the economic and social lives of millions of children, women and men. Their indiscriminate use of abduction and murder, as well as sexual and gender-based violence, as a means to terrorize local populations in the fight to extend their territorial control is particularly abhorrent. To stem that ever-growing wave of violent crime, the Haitian National Police (HNP) has, with its limited capacity, sought to improve the effectiveness of its anti-gang operations, to adopt a more balanced approach between prevention and repression and to rely on an increased police presence in sensitive areas. That approach has yielded modest temporary results in zones such as Croix-des-Bouquets in the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area. Yet an overstretched, understaffed and underresourced police cannot, on its own, curtail the alarming rise in gang-generated insecurity. To provide the HNP with much-needed relief, the Government, Haiti’s international partners and the United Nations have jointly resolved to strengthen international support and the coordination of assistance to the institution with a view to ensuring its effective and structured long-term development. In order to address the gaps that ail the police, that newfound momentum — epitomized by the imminent creation of a multi-donor basket fund — must now translate into increased Government funding for the force, as well as additional international financial and technical support. To be sure, the gang phenomenon cannot be addressed through policing alone. A law-enforcement approach that incorporates a greater control of the illegal flow of weapons needs to be complemented by socioeconomic projects and reintegration activities aimed at generating employment and revenue in the neighbourhoods most affected by the scourge of gang violence. The Haitian authorities have adopted a national community violence reduction strategy premised on such a holistic approach, and we commend their efforts to ensure that it is swiftly and effectively implemented. As a result of an initiative by the Ministry of Education, several schools in the Port-au-Prince neighbourhoods of Cité-Soleil and La Saline have been able to recently reopen after years of closure, allowing thousands of young people to resume their education. Those successes offer hope that resolute and coordinated Government actions will lead to the provision of additional basic services in those communities as well as to their extension to other areas. Our continued support is crucial to the success of that effort. Impunity represents another intractable phenomenon that Haiti urgently needs to address. To date there has been no progress in establishing accountability for the 2020 assassination of Monferrier Dorval, the 2018 massacre in La Saline or the ones that occurred in Bel- Air in 2019 and 2020. Moreover, some seven months after the ghastly assassination of President Moïse, the national investigation into his murder has stalled, a situation that fuels rumours and exacerbates both suspicion and mistrust within the country. The Haitian judicial system suffers from grave structural weaknesses, as evidenced by the severe challenges in renewing the terms of judges on time. That cripples the ability of courts to investigate, process and try cases. Modest signs of progress such as the recent increase in the number of hearings held are encouraging and should be supported. Nevertheless, more action is needed to prepare for the entry into force of the new penal and criminal procedure codes and to ensure that reform in the judiciary can be sustained over the long term. The earthquake that destroyed parts of the southern peninsula in August 2021 and killed 2,248 people has added a new layer of complexity to an already dire humanitarian situation. It is now estimated that 4.9 million people, or 43 per cent of the country’s population, will be in need of humanitarian assistance in 2022. Coming on the heels of a 21 January ministerial-level meeting chaired by Canada, this week’s international donors conference for the reconstruction of the southern peninsula, which was co-chaired by the Prime Minister and the Deputy Secretary-General, who travelled to Haiti for the event, provided an important opportunity to revitalize the engagement of the international community in support of Haiti and its population. I wish in that regard to express our deep gratitude to Member States for having collectively pledged some $600 million, which will serve to meet the initial needs outlined in the integrated reconstruction plan. Earlier this month, Haiti marked three consecutive years without a laboratory-confirmed case of cholera. That watershed moment, which represents a significant step towards eliminating disease in Haiti, was reached thanks to the strong leadership of the Haitian authorities and the Haitian people, the unwavering dedication of front-line workers throughout the country and the partnership of the United Nations and so many other bilateral and multilateral organizations. I truly thank them. While those collective efforts have succeeded, overall the lack of impact and effectiveness of development aid over many years in the country requires us to collectively formulate a new approach, one premised on a deeper coordination of international efforts and a real partnership with the Haitian authorities and Haitian actors. For Haiti to emerge from the acute political and institutional crisis in which is plunged, it is imperative that all Haitian leaders resolve to engage constructively with one another to steer the country towards a process that will allow elections to occur. The international community must also continue to engage with the Haitian Government and other stakeholders not only to support efforts to create the security and political conditions necessary for the holding of national elections but also to ensure that urgent structural reforms are undertaken to tackle gang violence, address impunity and corruption, strengthen the justice system and transform the economy in a sustainable manner. Now is not the time to let Haiti fall off the agenda.

I now give the floor to those Council members wishing to make statements.

I thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Helen La Lime for her briefing on the situation in Haiti and for the tireless work done by her and her team in Haiti. The United States commends the efforts of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) to help Haiti through this most difficult period. As the Secretary-General’s team conducts its assessment of BINUH’s mandate, and as we look forward to a renewal in July, the situation in Haiti demonstrates just how vital the ongoing support of the United Nations remains. Over the past two months, the international community has demonstrated its commitment to addressing Haiti’s security situation as well as its political and economic challenges. In December, the United States convened a senior-level meeting with Haiti and its international partners. We all agreed that concrete and rapid steps must be taken to strengthen the Haitian National Police, and we all agreed on the need for political dialogue among all sectors of Haitian society. As members heard from Special Representative of the Secretary-General La Lime, that is essential to reaching agreement on a path to free and fair elections when conditions permit. As the Secretary-General’s report (S/2022/117) notes, Canada hosted a ministerial-level meeting on Haiti in January, with 19 States and several multilateral organizations in attendance. In a statement issued after the meeting, Canada emphasized “the importance of strengthening international support and the coordination of international assistance”. Just this week, the Haitian Government held a reconstruction conference. We thank those countries that participated and reiterate how crucial it is that international contributions match Haiti’s critical needs. All of those conferences and gatherings demonstrate the international community’s concern for and commitment to Haiti. Haiti does not stand alone. The renewal of BINUH’s mandate will reaffirm our shared commitment to stand with the Haitian people as they work to address the ongoing political and security crises. There is much to be concerned about. Last year’s gang activity grew rapidly. And as we heard from the Special Representative of the Secretary- General, Haitians have been subjected to killings, kidnappings, sexual violence and forced displacement. Those responsible for these horrific acts must be held accountable. The Haitian National Police requires financial support; it requires equipment, training and consistent leadership. That will ensure its continued professionalization and strengthen its capacity to tackle gangs and improve citizen security. But as the Secretary-General’s report notes, policing alone cannot tackle Haiti’s security problems. The international community must continue broader efforts to support the rule of law in Haiti. We must provide support not just for law enforcement but also for the judiciary and for community violence reduction initiatives to help Haiti to create a functioning criminal justice system. We look forward to the release of the Secretary- General’s assessment of the BINUH mandate in April. We must build on our momentum to increase donor coordination and cooperation and to support efforts to improve the security situation in Haiti. BINUH serves an essential and ongoing role in Haiti. Let us continue to work together to provide the Haitian people with the support that they need and deserve.

I thank Ms. La Lime for her briefing. We welcome the representative of Haiti to today’s meeting of the Security Council. The situation in Haiti could hardly be more worrisome. The Secretary-General’s report (S/2022/117) and Ms. La Lime’s briefing leave no doubt about the suffering of the Haitian people as a result of the political, economic, humanitarian and human rights crises facing them. At the same time, the resilience of the Haitian people in the face of adversity and all the efforts of United Nations personnel to fulfil their mandate must be acknowledged. The security crisis in Haiti is alarming. In Port- au-Prince, millions of people have suffered in one way or another from violence caused by gangs that control a significant part of the capital. Incidents of sexual violence against women, girls and young men are unacceptable. The displacement of thousands of people by urban violence is truly serious, as is the fragility and even the ineffectiveness of the Haitian judicial system, which fails to provide justice for victims, while subjecting prisoners awaiting trial to deplorable conditions. The multiple challenges facing Haiti require comprehensive attention to the underlying root causes of insecurity and violence, as well as tackling arms trafficking, fighting corruption and building the rule of law. Mexico will support the Haitian National Police through training programmes on combating organized crime, particularly anti-gang strategies, as well as strengthening communities to try and build trust among the population. In addition, we believe that the formation of the Provisional Electoral Council for the holding of free, transparent and credible presidential and legislative elections cannot be postponed. It is time for political differences in Haiti, which are not few, to be resolved at the ballot box. A significant factor contributing to the humanitarian crisis is the degradation of the environment, the adverse effects of climate change and its impact on food security — once again an undeniable example of how environmental degradation exacerbates insecurity and undermines peace. In that regard, Mexico will implement the Sowing Life programme in Haiti, which has been successful in our country and others and will benefit more than 5,000 people in its first phase. That project is in addition to the medical brigade deployed last year, the more than 2,000 tons of food and medicines sent and the graduate scholarship programme for young Haitians. The United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) was the first special political mission established under the Secretary-General’s peace and security reform. My country recognizes that, given Haiti’s multidimensional challenges, the BINUH concept and mandate sought to address the root causes that undermine stability and governance, and it has made a significant contribution. However, resolution 2600 (2021), which we adopted unanimously last year, requested that an assessment of the mission be conducted. We trust that such an assessment will provide concrete recommendations so that we, as Council members, can take the necessary decisions to render the United Nations presence in the country more effective. It is indeed urgent that we do so.

I thank Special Representative La Lime for her briefing. Over the past four months, the crisis in Haiti has continued to simmer. The internal political division has further intensified. The constitutional referendum and the presidential election are a long way off. Gang violence remains rampant. The reform of the judicial system has been slow, and economic difficulties and the fiscal deficit have deteriorated, causing the widespread concern of the international community and countries of the region. China calls on Haitian political leaders with a heightened sense of urgency to earnestly assume the responsibility of governing the country so that its people can enjoy a decent and stable life at an early date. A stable political structure is a prerequisite for the resolution of the Haitian issue. It is ultimately up to the Haitian people to resolve the issues facing the country. Without a competent Government that is widely recognized by its people, nothing else can be achieved. All parties in Haiti should start an inclusive dialogue as soon as possible, reach an agreement on political arrangements for the transitional period and find a realistic and feasible electoral plan and timetable. Gang violence remains the primary challenge to the security situation in Haiti. We note with concern that, over the past four months, kidnappings for ransom have surged by 180 per cent year on year and intentional homicides are up by 17 per cent year on year. Solving gang violence requires treating both the symptoms and the root causes. It is essential to improve the professional capabilities of the police to protect the safety of the people and effectively combat gang activities. It is also crucial to cut off the channel for gangs to illegally obtain weapons and funds and the profit chain between the political forces and gangsters. Alleviating the humanitarian crisis and stabilizing the economic situation are urgent tasks facing Haiti. More than 40 per cent of Haitians are in urgent need of humanitarian aid. Some 4.4 million people face food insecurity due to the impact of the earthquake last August and 19,000 people have been displaced by violence. We take note of the international event for the financing of the reconstruction of Haiti’s southern peninsula held recently, and we hope that the international community will continue to provide humanitarian and economic assistance to Haiti. At the same time, we should also note that Haiti has not yet established an effective economic governance system, resulting in the loss of massive tax revenues, including customs duties, which greatly limits the Government’s ability to provide basic public services. Haiti must overcome the institutional barriers to economic governance, which is a prerequisite for sustainable development. Last October, the Security Council adopted resolution 2600 (2021), on the extension of the mandate of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH), requesting the Secretary-General to submit an assessment report on the BINUH mandate to the Security Council within six months. That provides an important opportunity for us to review and reflect on the work of the Office, update its mandate, based on the changes on the ground and improve our assistance to the Haitian people. Innovative ways should be explored to help Haiti overcome systemic and structural obstacles to peace and development, so that the Haitian people will not miss out on peace and development once more. Over the years, the United Nations system has provided Haiti with a considerable amount of development assistance, but it has not had the desired effect. Looking into the future, BINUH and the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Haiti should play a coordinating role to improve communication among the Economic and Social Council, UNICEF, the United Nations Development Programme and the World Bank, among others, so as to forge synergies. China supports the United Nations Peacebuilding Commission in playing a greater role in the situation in Haiti. The Security Council could invite the Peacebuilding Commission to provide advice on the situation in Haiti. Haiti is a member of the Latin American and Caribbean family. Countries of the region and regional organizations are the most knowledgeable about Haiti’s national context and are in a prime position to play a constructive role. China supports the countries of the region and regional organizations in playing a greater role in promoting dialogue among the Haitian people. We welcome the fact that countries concerned are assisting Haiti in building police and judicial capacity and combating drug and arms trafficking and illicit financial flows. We also believe that countries of the region should step up their efforts in those areas. China stands ready to work with the members of the Security Council and the parties concerned to explore the best way to provide practical, effective and sustainable support for Haiti, so that Haiti can embark upon the road of independent development at the earliest.

I thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General La Lime and, through her, the hard-working United Nations team in Haiti. I would also like to welcome the representative of Haiti to the Chamber today. Unfortunately, the issues we are discussing here today are not new for Haiti. As we have heard, the suffering of the Haitian people continues at a devastating level. I will focus on three areas today. First, with regard to the continued deterioration of the security situation in Haiti, the daily reality for millions of Haitians is one of brutal gang violence terrorizing the population, leading to fuel shortages, the disruption of services, the stifling of humanitarian relief, hunger, confinement, kidnappings and killings. Haitian women and girls are disproportionately affected by the instability and violence. We are appalled at the escalating sexual and gender-based violence, used as an insidious tactic by gangs to control and instil fear in the population. The Haitian people deserve to see an end to impunity for human rights violations and abuses and perpetrators brought to justice. Instead, the consequences for those who dare to draw attention to armed violence are grave, as evidenced by the recent targeting and killing of journalists and continued attacks on human rights defenders. The climate of fear and intimidation created by violence compounds the difficulties in addressing the myriad of crises facing Haiti. As the Special Representative of the Secretary- General outlined, it is critical that the security situation improve. That would require prioritization and resourcing for policing, including capacity-building and confidence-building. Until then, Haitians across the country will remain confined to their homes, unable to fulfil their economic prospects or exercise their political will. Secondly, increased violence has exacerbated vulnerability. As the Special Representative of the Secretary-General noted, many are still reeling from the devastating effects of the August earthquake. More than 4 million Haitians face high levels of acute food insecurity, while the economy is in free fall. Without urgent assistance, the Haitian people will continue to face desperate choices. We welcome this week’s international conference in Port-au-Prince, at which $600 million was raised. However, as Deputy Secretary-General Mohammed remarked during her visit, significant humanitarian needs remain. Without support, even more Haitians will make heartbreaking calculations that a perilous journey abroad is safer than staying at home. When they make that journey, it is crucial that all be afforded their legal protections under international refugee law. Safe, legal and dignified channels for those escaping violence are essential now more than ever before. Ireland commends the resolve and dedication shown by the humanitarian community to ensure that aid reaches those who need it most. Ireland will continue its consistent support to Haiti in the provision of humanitarian, reconstruction and development assistance. However, what Haitians really need is a path to political stability, creating the conditions for economic recovery and sustainable development. That brings me to my final point. National consensus is the only means by which the political deadlock in Haiti can be broken. As we have said previously, that consensus must be built on wide, inclusive, participatory engagement, including with civil society representatives. Durable solutions are also required to guarantee safety and security for all those who engage politically, in particular for women, so as to ensure their full, equal and meaningful participation. We welcome the Secretary-General’s appointment of Mr. Mourad Wahba to lead the assessment of the mandate of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) and look forward to his report. Given the enormous scale of the challenges facing Haiti, it is right that we reflect on how the United Nations can best support the Haitian people. The needs and aspirations of Haitians must lead our consideration of the future mandate for BINUH. That means looking at how we can help bring stability and security to their daily lives, capacity-building and supporting good governance, while helping to fight impunity and protecting human rights. The international community has a responsibility to stand with the Haitian people. Now is the time for the United Nations not to step away, but rather to step up in support of Haitian-led efforts to forge a path forward.

I thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General La Lime for briefing us today and for her team’s hard work. Last year, Haiti faced multiple crises that would have shaken the core of any country. The handling of those crises and much-needed sustainable development in Haiti cannot be achieved without restoring confidence in the political and judiciary system, based on the rule of law. All political actors must commit to an inclusive dialogue to resolve the current political impasse and, as soon as feasible, organize new and legitimate elections. An inclusive process, including the full, equal and meaningful participation of women, must continue if a Haitian solution to the political situation is to be found. That situation could benefit from a stronger international engagement with and in Haiti, including a stronger United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH). As highlighted in the Secretary-General’s report (S/2022/117), human rights violations and abuses, associated with the armed violence in Port-au-Prince, are alarming and must be urgently addressed. In particular, the reported use of sexual violence and rape by criminal gangs, as a weapon to terrorize and assert control, must stop. The gang violence continues to displace affected populations. Women and children make up the majority of those displaced. People with disabilities are at particular risk. Norway calls upon the authorities to do more to protect their citizens, ensure that humanitarian workers have unhindered access and swiftly implement the national community violence reduction strategy. The underlying root causes that have led to today’s demanding situation for the Haitian people must be addressed. Close coordination is key if we are to succeed in our efforts to support more positive developments in Haiti. We were pleased this week that the Haitian Government and the United Nations were able to mobilize a contribution from the international community of $600 million for the post-earthquake reconstruction of areas in the southern peninsula. The world will continue to face increasingly powerful hurricanes and the impact of climate change, which will contribute to increased humanitarian needs. We must do more to assist those countries that are most affected. Haiti is clearly one of them. One area of particular importance is building capacity to implement the National Risk and Disaster Management Plan 2019-2030. Norway looks forward to the assessment of the BINUH mandate. The assessment must be transparent and based on an inclusive process with all partners, including members of civil society. We need a reinforced BINUH that is fit for purpose and ready to take on the challenges on the ground. This is not the time for less international engagement with and in Haiti. BINUH and the United Nations have an even more critical role to play in creating a more stable and prosperous future for Haiti.

At the outset, let me thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Helen La Lime for her comprehensive briefing. I also welcome the presence of the representative of Haiti at today’s meeting. As we have seen in the past decade, recovery from the multidimensional challenges in Haiti has never been easy. The resilience of the people of Haiti has been tested repeatedly by unpredictable political developments and tragic natural calamities. Last year, Haiti faced challenges on both fronts. The assassination of the President in July 2021, the devastating high- magnitude earthquake and the hurricane the following August have all exacerbated the humanitarian crisis. Since our previous meeting in October 2021 (see S/PV.8871), the political and security situation has also remained volatile and tense. While Haiti’s politics remain polarized, its leaders have been making welcome efforts towards achieving consensus on the political future of the country. In the current scenario, dialogue among all political actors is the best possible solution. The Haitian authorities have huge tasks ahead, including the restoration of functional democratic institutions, security and the rule of law. We welcome the Prime Minister’s reiteration last month of his commitment to dialogue with all stakeholders, including the Commission for a Haitian Solution to the Crisis, known as the Montana Group. We take note of his statement that the next Head of State will be chosen through democratic elections. It is critical that we support those initiatives and encourage building consensus on the transition, the constitution-making process and the holding of elections. The restoration of law and order has remained one of the greatest impediments in Haiti. The persisting gang-related violence, mainly in the capital, Port-au- Prince, has further contributed to increasing insecurity, on which the Special Representative of the Secretary- General elaborated, as well. The capacity-building of the Haitian National Police, coupled with other initiatives, including prosecution and judicial reforms to strengthen law and order, will be important. We welcome the efforts being undertaken in that direction. Despite the various challenges, the Peacebuilding Fund projects related to community violence reduction and disarmament, demobilization and reintegration, including capacity-building for the National Commission for Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration, are progressing positively. We need more such activities and initiatives under the auspices of the Peacebuilding Fund in Haiti. In conclusion, we look forward to the independent evaluation of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH), expected in April, which will outline the way forward. India has been extending assistance to Haiti in times of need, commencing with the 2010 earthquake rebuilding efforts. We also extended emergency financial aid to Haiti in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew in October 2016. Most recently, during the coronavirus disease pandemic, we have donated essential life-saving medicines. India reiterates its commitment to supporting the people of Haiti in these challenging times and welcomes the constructive work of BINUH.

I thank Ms La Lime, Special Representative of the Secretary-General, for her briefing, and I also welcome the presence of the representative of Haiti among us. Haiti is currently experiencing an extremely serious crisis on several fronts. The political class is being undermined by divisions and most institutions are undergoing severe difficulties. Criminal groups are terrorizing the population, and Haiti has barely recovered from the August 2021 earthquake. The situation is urgent. The Haitian authorities and the international community must act. I will address four points. First, only dialogue can lift Haiti out of the current political crisis. I therefore welcome the formation of an inclusive Government in November 2021, under the leadership of Prime Minister Ariel Henry. I call on all political actors to build the consensus necessary for the holding of elections by the end of the year. In order to ensure their success, it is urgent to establish a new Provisional Electoral Committee acceptable to all. Secondly, gang violence must be stopped. These criminal groups are committing an increasing number of homicides and kidnappings with total impunity. They are challenging the State’s authority and plundering its resources, and the situation is untenable. In the absence of security, neither elections or socioeconomic development are possible. Priority must therefore be given to devoting increased resources to the Haitian National Police, which, of course, must be irreproachable. France has stepped up its security cooperation in combating criminal groups, and the international support that was manifest at the 21 January ministerial meeting, hosted by Canada, is an absolutely positive sign in that regard. Thirdly, we must return to the normal functioning of institutions. Let us squarely look at the situation. The Haitian judicial system is currently in disarray. Haiti must complete its investigation into the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse. Like widespread corruption, impunity undermines confidence in the State and destroys the social bond. My last point is that the humanitarian situation in Haiti is alarming. The August 2021 earthquake aggravated an already precarious situation. Nearly half of the Haitian population is currently in need of humanitarian aid. There is therefore an urgent need to strengthen humanitarian support, in particular food aid. In 2022, France will contribute up to €6.5 million to the humanitarian response plan in Haiti, and, at the 16 February donor conference, France announced that the French Development Agency will contribute up to €4.9 million for financing projects. Before concluding, I wish to refer to the outstanding work that the United Nations is doing in Haiti in an extremely difficult context. The United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti is undergoing an assessment, the results of which we are eagerly awaiting. Maintaining a robust United Nations presence in Haiti is imperative, particularly in the political and security arenas. Haiti is a country that is a friend of France. Beginning with a shared language, long-standing ties unite us, and I take this opportunity to commend the work of the International Organization of La Francophonie on the ground. Together with the European Union, France stands with the Haitians to help them find a way out of the crisis that the country so desperately needs.

The situation in Haiti continues to be marked by instability and a persisting crisis, with far-reaching consequences. Violence remains widespread. Corruption is endemic. The overall crime rate and the culture of impunity are simply shocking. Haitians are being hit hard by the deteriorating economic situation, which affects their daily life and access to basic services. Let me highlight the following key points. First, addressing the widespread insecurity in the country remains vital. Gangs and lawlessness constitute a gangrene; they erode confidence, they paralyse institutions and, as they are fed by chaos, they generate more of the same. Therefore, restoring the State’s authority is of critical importance — the starting point for any meaningful projection of a path towards normality. In that respect, every effort should be made to further strengthen the Haitian National Police, but, as we know, fighting crime and violence cannot be successful without fighting endemic corruption. Therefore, tailor-made assistance is needed to facilitate judicial reforms to fight corruption and end the culture of impunity that fuels it. Secondly, Haiti will not emerge from the vortex of multiple crises without a clear and legitimate path towards democracy. We welcome efforts by the Haitian Government to foster unity among political stakeholders in order to pave the way towards elections and constitutional reform. We take note of the continued outreach by Prime Minister Ariel Henry, including with supporters of the Commission for a Haitian Solution to the Crisis, known as the Montana Group, several political groups, trade unions, the private sector and civil society, to discuss the political situation in the country. The solution lies in inclusive national dialogue with the involvement of all political, business and civil society stakeholders. The international community can and should help, but the resolution of the crisis is in the hands of the Haitians themselves. Preparations for elections must be accelerated. Inclusive, peaceful, free, fair, transparent and credible elections must be organized with the full, equal and meaningful participation of women and the involvement of the civil society actors, who, as we know, play an important role in ensuring that the elections will be credible. Credible elections restore legitimacy; they help create functioning institutions to engage in vital reforms. It is the first important step for the Haitian political class to renew with the trust of people. Thirdly, the international community has been actively involved in Haiti, despite contrasting results, but this should not lead to donor’s fatigue. We welcome the outcome of the international donor conference in support of relief efforts for the earthquake in 2021. The important commitments made will help Haiti rebuild after the massive destruction of the southern part of the country. In this respect, everything must be done to meet the humanitarian needs of all those in need. Fourthly and lastly, we strongly support the work of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) and call on the Haitian authorities to work with the mission and other United Nations actors to bring about the urgent reforms the country needs in order to improve political stability and good governance and create a safer, democratic, just and more prosperous country. We support in general the regular assessment of peace operations to make sure that they stay relevant, focused on the tasks and challenges at hand, and remain effective and efficient. Therefore, we look forward to the strategic assessment of BINUH in order to further strengthen the Mission. We also need to hear more and directly from those affected, from women and human rights defenders, in order to make fully informed decisions. Despite the grim situation, we cannot let fear and uncertainty overshadow hope. We stand by Haiti and Haitians in their struggle to face the challenges of the current crisis.

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the three African members of the Security Council (A3), namely, Gabon, Ghana and Kenya. We thank Special Representative of the Secretary- General Helen La Lime for her presentation and welcome His Excellency Mr. Antonio Rodrigue, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Haiti. Witnessing the profound challenges that Haiti is experiencing today, we would do well to remember that it has overcome even greater odds in its turbulent history. It is the first free nation to have been established by slaves, who fiercely cast off their chains to inherit what had been the richest colonial holding in the world. Its heroic insistence on freedom and dignity marked a resounding defeat of false racist hierarchies that had fed the cruel and evil enterprise of slavery. Humankind and all people of good conscience owe Haiti the debt of high regard. We recall that history to remember that liberation has a cost and that all free peoples should recognize that sacrifice by honouring and uplifting the descendants of those who have gifted us liberty. Haiti has rarely been allowed to overcome the legacy of its glorious revolution, which defeated some of the greatest military Powers of the eighteenth century. It was blockaded and forced to pay onerous, prosperity- destroying reparations. It was also colonized. The Haitian people have seemed to be punished from the day their forefathers announced their freedom until the recent past. When we Africans look westwards, we see in Haiti a shining beacon of our claim to equality and our unrelenting demand for respect and dignity. We stand with the people of Haiti and their enduring quest to enjoy the prosperity and peace that should be the product of liberty. Our task today is to engage here in the Security Council and in every forum to support the recovery of Haiti’s security, its competent and democratic Government, and its securing of shared prosperity. We do so in support of Haitian-owned and -led initiatives to recover peace and security as foundations for economic development. The A3 highlight five key issues, namely, the political situation, security, the rule of law, the economic and humanitarian situations and the mandate of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH). On the political situation, the A3 is concerned that the continued polarization and divergences among members of the political class has undermined progress on an agreed way forward. We urge Haiti’s political leadership, its professionals and members of civil society to show they have the will to compromise in forging a strong constitutional model and, linked to this, to deliver credible elections that produce an inclusive and competent Government. Africa has a strong understanding of forging agreements in complex and embattled circumstances. We urge them to make use of Africa’s experiences and to be open to African efforts to share them. We equally urge the African Union and African States to seek to share our knowledge and good offices with the people of Haiti in this moment of need. The Constitutive Act of the African Union recognizes the sixth region, which Haiti is part of; if we are to live up to the role we must play for this region, then this is the moment. The A3 is deeply concerned by the worsening security situation. We take note of the recent changes undertaken in the police force, but much more needs to be done as the force faces multiple challenges, including the lack of appropriate equipment and expertise and low morale. We welcome the ongoing efforts of BINUH and other partners to strengthen the capacity of the Haitian National Police, with a particular focus on anti-gang operations. We urge the redoubling of these efforts and the need for coordination and synergy between the Haitian authorities and all partners. We underscore the need to incorporate into the support packages specialized training for the protection of women and girls from sexual and gender-based abuses. This should include the establishment of mechanisms for the provision of psychosocial support, especially to victims of such abuse. To restore the rule of law, Haiti needs to resuscitate the justice system. We encourage the Haitian authorities to undertake comprehensive justice sector reforms with the aim of addressing prolonged pretrial detentions, the establishment of legal aid offices, the expediting of court cases and the establishment of functioning court registries. These measures are key to fighting impunity and ensuring that those responsible for the perpetration of emblematic crimes, including the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse, are brought to justice. It is critical that the link between politics, gangs and illicit financial flows be broken. We urge the Security Council and the international community to crack down on transnational crime and money- laundering, which incentivize the continuing influence of criminal cartels on the political life of Haiti. There should be no shelter anywhere for the criminal groups and individuals preying on the people of Haiti. With pervasive insecurity, political instability and governance challenges compounded by global supply shortages and natural disasters, Haiti’s economic situation is in deep distress. The resultant high levels of unemployment and limited social service delivery are pushing many deeper into poverty and worsening the humanitarian situation. There is an urgent need to address the root causes of poverty and precariousness in order to enable sustainable reconstruction in Haiti. The country continues to lose the precious manpower it needs for its reconstruction. Young Haitians are leaving the country by the thousands to flee a daily life that has become unliveable owing to a lack of future prospects. The A3 thanks multilateral and bilateral actors, as well as non-governmental organizations, for their actions to meet some of these humanitarian needs. We also thank all those who participated in the 16 February high-level international event for the reconstruction and recovery of the southern peninsula of Haiti, following the devastating earthquake on 14 August and Tropical Storm Grace on 17 August last year. We note that Haiti has received $14 billion in the form of international support, including $7 billion from the United Nations since 2004. The bulk of that aid has been aimed at the emergency response. While that is needed and understandable, the A3 calls for added assistance to food security, infrastructure development, justice and security sector reform, education and disaster risk management. The A3 reaffirm our support for the work of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti. We are keen for its mandate to be reviewed so that it can provide better support. We therefore welcome the appointment of Mr. Mourad Wahba as the lead expert to carry out an independent strategic assessment of BINUH’s mandate. We encourage him to consult widely and look forward to considering his report and recommendations. In conclusion, I wish to reaffirm our solidarity with the great people of Haiti and our belief in their resilience and ingenuity. A reborn, resurgent Haiti can be won today through more determined efforts by Haitian leaders in politics and civil society if they determine that their obligations are greater than their narrow interests.

I would like to thank Ms. Helen La Lime, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Haiti, for her valuable briefing, and I welcome the representative of Haiti to this meeting. The past months have been trying times for Haiti. Recently hit by natural disasters, violence continues to rise across the country and political differences remains, in turn exacerbating the humanitarian, security and political situation. The United Arab Emirates expresses its total rejection of all acts of armed gang violence, as they undermine peace efforts. Serious measures at all levels are required to restore peace and stability, including by strengthening and respecting the rule of law. The United Arab Emirates would like to highlight three potential focus areas to support Haiti’s path towards stability and prosperity. First, inclusion is fundamental to success. It is critical to broaden political representation and inclusivity of all segments of Haitian society. We call on all stakeholders to remain committed to constructive dialogue and efforts to achieve national unity. In order for those efforts to be sustainable, they must also include the full, equal and meaningful participation of Haitian women. Programmes focusing on women’s participation and protection from violence, such as those highlighted in the Secretary-General’s report (S/2022/117), can provide the necessary support to ensure women’s political participation and protection. Secondly, it is necessary to build the capacity of national and local institutions to strengthen their role in addressing the ongoing challenges, particularly in the light of increased instability. We stress the importance of continuing to strengthen the security sector during the transitional process, in addition to addressing increased violence from the activity of armed gangs and combating corruption. We also stress the need for a clear approach and support for the judicial sector. Finally, a reduction of community violence requires durable solutions, including through development and humanitarian efforts. In that regard, recovery and reconstruction programmes, such as community- led development initiatives, must continue to support sustainable efforts in Haiti. Community violence is amplified by the lack of opportunities, limiting the ability to improve livelihoods and the success of humanitarian response efforts. We believe that the recent international conference on the southern peninsula will support reconstruction efforts in Haiti, and we look forward to continuing support in Haiti, as it contributes to the stability of the country. In conclusion, we await the upcoming independent strategic assessment report. We welcome the appointment of Mr. Wahba and appreciate his efforts. We reiterate, however, that a coherent Haiti-led and -owned response to the situation in Haiti is the key for the nation’s security and prosperity. The United Arab Emirates continues to stand in solidarity with the Haitian people and reaffirms its support for the work of the United Nations in its efforts to help achieve peace and stability.

I would like to convey my appreciation to Special Representative Helen La Lime for her comprehensive briefing. I also welcome the Permanent Representative of Haiti, Ambassador Antonio Rodrigue. It is fitting to take the floor to comment on recent developments in Haiti and on the current work of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH). Brazil’s commitment to Haiti is unwavering. It is not an overstatement to say that Haiti is extremely close to Brazilian hearts. Our long-term involvement in international efforts to help Haiti and our openness to receive Haitians in vulnerable situation are proof of that. During the time that the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti was in place, we deployed tens of thousands of blue helmets, as well as the Force Commander to the peacekeeping operation, throughout the 13 consecutive years of the Mission. Today we have once again received a bleak and disconcerting report, notwithstanding some bright spots. Such a dire situation compels us to collectively reflect on what we need to do differently and to think creatively so that the international community can truly start making a significant impact in improving the situation on the ground. From our perspective, we consider that the United Nations presence in Haiti has to be reassessed and re-engineered with a comprehensive and integrated approach that takes into account the economic, political and social dimensions of the crisis. Haiti has to break the perverse, reinforcing cycle of poverty, criminality and political violence. That can only be achieved through a system-wide strategy that enables enhanced cooperation between the Council and other United Nations entities primarily responsible for economic and social development. In that context, we may wish to explore mechanisms to strengthen cooperation and coordination with the Economic and Social Council and even with the Peacebuilding Commission in order to benefit from its bridging role, as mentioned by the representatives of China and India. The Peacebuilding Commission was created precisely to fill a gap in the United Nations system, with the mission to act as a catalyst to support efforts in consolidating peace and promoting development in countries emerging from conflict. It is unavoidable that we embark on an in-depth discussion on BINUH’s mandate, scheduled for renewal in July. We are therefore looking forward to receiving the Secretary-General’s recommendations, to be issued in April, after the independent evaluation in progress is concluded. Regarding the current political situation in Haiti, we hope that the Government will be successful in bringing the main political forces together over a plan to reconstruct the political institutions of the country, a necessary step for elections to safely take place. There will be no solution to this multifaceted crisis if a broad political consensus does not emerge among all stakeholders, which would allow for the return of institutional normalcy to Haiti. In that regard, we welcome and encourage the Prime Minister’s efforts to build consensus on the path forward in an inclusive manner. We welcome the renewed impetus and strengthened international coordination for providing international cooperation in key areas for Haiti’s development, such as providing the Haitian police equipment and human resources and helping to fund the reconstruction of Haitian infrastructure. In that regard, Brazil committed funds for the reconstruction of Haitian infrastructure affected by last year’s earthquake during the International Event for the Financing of the Reconstruction of the Southern Peninsula of Haiti, held two days ago. We are confident that we can curb the multidimensional Haitian crisis with the decisive leadership of the Haitian people and the help of the international community. In conclusion, let me remind my fellow Council members of the fundamental United Nations principle to leave no one behind, which I am sure we will be able to uphold when evaluating our next steps regarding the Haitian crisis. I reassure our friends in Haiti that Brazil is not oblivious to their suffering and that they may count on our continued support and solidarity.

I would like to thank Special Representative La Lime for her briefing this morning and for all the work she and her team are doing. I would like to make three brief points today. First, the complex security, health and economic challenges currently faced by Haiti can be resolved only by unified support for Haitian-led solutions. In that regard, the United Kingdom remains firm in its belief that support to the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) remains critical, especially with regard to the mission’s ongoing efforts to facilitate a unified approach to those multifaceted challenges. We look forward to the independent assessment of BINUH’s mandate as we approach its renewal in July. Secondly, the persistent political gridlock is deeply troubling, as is the continued impact it is having on the Haitian people. We encourage efforts under way to secure political consensus for a pathway to free, fair and credible elections and for all sides to work constructively in support of a peaceful, democratic solution for the Haitian people. It is incumbent upon all of us, as Haiti’s international partners, to do likewise in supporting a Haitian-led solution. Thirdly, we are concerned by the deteriorating security and human rights situation, particularly the increase in kidnappings, indiscriminate criminal violence and instances of human trafficking. The United Kingdom will continue to support work with both the Government of Haiti and the international community to address those challenges. Criminal armed groups and perpetrators of human rights abuses not only jeopardize the lives of Haitians, but risk undermining the prospect of real political progress. The assassination of President Moïse was an abhorrent act and we maintain our call for the perpetrators of that crime to be brought to justice. We remain deeply worried by the humanitarian situation in the country. The coronavirus disease has compounded economic and health threats, which were exacerbated further by the devastating earthquake last year. That has particularly impacted women and children, increasing their vulnerabilities and the threats to their economic and health welfare. We therefore welcome the outcome of the donor conference this week. Finally, the United Kingdom encourages all actors to work constructively and cooperatively with the Haitian authorities to find solutions to the root causes of those crises and to support the development and advancement of the Haitian people.

I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the representative of the Russian Federation. We thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Ms. Helen La Lime, for her briefing on the situation in the country and the work of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti. Over many months, tensions in Haiti have escalated and are a source of grave concern. We are convinced that the root cause of such tensions is the lack of progress in the internal dialogue between political forces and society, which has led to the de facto paralysis of the legislative branch. That, in turn, has affected the State’s ability to effectively address urgent day-to-day tasks, above all guaranteeing the safety of the population. As a result, criminal elements have become increasingly active, and the situation as a whole has been compounded by the coronavirus disease pandemic. Today, Haiti is in a state of profound crisis, marked by rising political instability, criminal gang activity, civil unrest and sever economic, energy, migration and humanitarian problems. There is a power vacuum at all levels, with Government structures that lack authority, a paralysed judicial system and ineffective law enforcement agencies. We are witnessing the efforts of Prime Minister Ariel Henry’s Government to try to reach a compromise between the various social forces to stabilize the situation in the country and launch reform processes. However, it is premature to talk about progress. Against that backdrop, we are also seeing alarming reports that Haiti is being flooded with small arms, which, as we know, are not manufactured in the country. The only possible way for those small arms to enter the country is through seaports, over which the Government must regain full control. Otherwise, the issue of rampant gang activity will transform from one of a range of security threats into a political factor, which will be impossible to ignore. We note with regret the lack of significant progress in the investigation into the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July last year. There are also concerning reports of possible foreign involvement in that crime, which the United Nations Secretary-General rightly referred to as an attack on democracy. Those responsible must be duly punished. The complex of problems that have accumulated in Haiti must be resolved urgently, starting with the principal issue, namely, political stabilization. That can be achieved only through dialogue based on existing legislation, which must lead to elections and increased trust and support from the general public. If that is does not occur, the country will run the risk of falling into an abyss, and reconstruction and development will be delayed for many years. We encourage Haitians to swiftly engage in an internal dialogue to find a solution to the crisis. The United Nations mission must not only assist in that regard, but also make such a dialogue an absolute priority. Port-au-Prince needs responsible international assistance in order to prevent further divisions within Haitian society and allowing the situation to spiral into a regional humanitarian crisis. Russia, together with its colleagues in the Security Council, will continue to work to ensure that international assistance provided through the United Nations results in a genuine normalization of the situation in Haiti, strengthening the country’s sovereignty and self-sufficiency. I resume my functions as President of the Council. I now give the floor to the representative of Haiti.

I am delighted to have the opportunity to address the Security Council today as it considers the report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) (S/2022/117), pursuant to resolutions 2476 (2019), establishing BINUH, and 2600 (2021), renewing its mandate until 15 July 2022. However, before I begin my statement, allow me to congratulate you, Sir, on your assumption of the presidency of the Council for the month of February. I wish you and the other members of the Council every success in the important task of ensuring the maintenance of international peace and security. I also thank the Special Representative of the Secretary- General, Ms. Helen La Lime, for her enlightening briefing on developments in the situation in Haiti and on the events that have taken placed since the previous report (S/2021/828) was issued, including progress made and the challenges that lie ahead. I also listened carefully to the statements made by the members of the Council and taken note of their observations and pertinent remarks. On behalf of Prime Minister Ariel Henry, allow me to thank the Council for its attention to the situation in my country, which is just one of many in various parts of the world that are undergoing crises. I wish to take this opportunity to once again convey the gratitude of the Haitian people for the wave of solidarity shown by the international community last Wednesday, which allowed us to mobilize $600 million by way of pledges for the reconstruction of Haiti’s southern peninsula, which was dealt a heavy blow last year by a devastating earthquake. As members are no doubt aware, the current situation in my country is marked by the dysfunction of all of our democratic institutions; we need to get those back on track. The heinous assassination of the President of the Republic only made things worse. Our judicial system is weak and has not proved capable of shedding light on that tragedy at a time when the Government is calling for justice to be done for the President and his family. We no longer have a Parliament capable of playing the role assigned to the legislative branch. It is imperative to work to resume as quickly as possible the smooth functioning of our institutions; that is a prerequisite for the return of lasting peace and stability to the country. The Government is working tirelessly to build sufficient consensus to put the country once again on the path towards democracy. Since Prime Minister Ariel Henry took office as the Head of Government, he has been anxious to meet with all sectors of Haitian society to reach agreement on peaceful and effective governance during the interim period. Within the framework of that agreement, he succeeded in bringing together political opponents who, a few months ago, were bitter rivals; civil-society actors; and a wealth of grass-roots organizations. Today he continues to seek to broaden the consensus by continuing dialogue with all Haitian citizens who agree to grasp the hand of brotherly friendship that he is holding out to them. We are looking to put in place the structures vital to organizing a people’s vote for the adoption of a new constitution and the convening of free, fair and democratic general elections. The Government has established a timeline of activities, which, if all goes well, should allow the reins of power to be handed over to officials elected by the Haitian people at the beginning of next year. However, there is a major constraint that poses a serious threat to the whole process. I refer here to insecurity, which may destroy all efforts made to date. Armed gangs are sowing terror in several regions of the country and in various neighbourhoods of the capital. It is inconceivable to contemplate the convening of elections without having first restored order and State Authority throughout the national territory. That is a pressing demand on the part of the whole of the Haitian population as well as a Government commitment. To date the Haitian National Police, with its scant resources, has garnered some success. Schools which were no longer able to function in neighbourhoods controlled by gangs have reopened their doors and now welcome thousands of children. Oil terminals which had been blocked by gang members for several weeks are once again operational. The list of successes could be longer, but we must recognize that a great deal remains to be done to allow normality to return. Suppression alone is not enough. Every time the police retakes control of a neighbourhood, it is vital to mobilize all resources necessary to allow the State to once again provide basic services to the people. We require increased support for the specialized agencies of the National Police. The Government is resolved, and our police officers are determined, to hunt down gang members and to take them off the streets. However, they are extremely short of weapons, ammunition and appropriate equipment, which the restrictive measures currently in force are preventing us from obtaining. Our police officers also require training and tailored support to allow them to effectively confront the situation in the country. In that regard, we have with interest followed the assessment called for by the Council of the mandate of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH). We hope that BINUH can be better tailored to the new realities in the country, including the deterioration of the security situation, with the violence perpetrated by armed gangs. For too long, my country has been weathering this chronic instability, which disrupts the economic life of the country, hinders investment, discourages tourism, keeps the people in abject poverty and pushes young people towards illegal immigration. We need to return hope to all and offer prospects of a better future. Without an improvement in the living conditions of the people, without massive investment, without the creation of stable, well-paid jobs, our efforts will be in vain. My Government is determined to create such a stable and safe climate, which is vital for a lasting normalization of the situation. Here we also need the support of friendly countries. In conclusion, I hope that the international solidarity noted last Wednesday with respect to the reconstruction of the southern peninsula will once again be shown so as to allow for the restoration of security. Once again, I thank the Council for devoting time to an analysis of the situation in Haiti.

There are no more names inscribed on the list of speakers. I will now adjourn the meeting so that the Council can continue its discussion on the subject in closed consultations.