S/PV.9844 Security Council

In accordance with rule 37 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite the representatives of Canada, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Kenya and Suriname to participate in this meeting. On behalf of the Council, I welcome His Excellency Mr. Luis Gilberto Murillo, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Colombia; His Excellency Mr. Roberto Álvarez Gil, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Dominican Republic; and His Excellency Mr. Jean-Victor Harvel Jean-Baptiste, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Worship of Haiti. In accordance with rule 39 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite the following briefers to participate in this meeting: Ms. María Isabel Salvador, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Haiti and Head of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti; and Ms. Ghada Fathi Waly, Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. 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/2025/28, which contains the report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti. I now give the floor to Ms. Salvador. Ms. Salvador: I come before the Council hopeful for the signs of progress on the political front despite serious setbacks on the security one. On 11 November, armed gangs targeted commercial aircraft near the Port-au-Prince international airport, forcing its closure and the suspension of all flights. At least three aircraft were hit, injuring a flight attendant in one instance. The resulting United States Federal Aviation Administration ban on United States-registered aircraft exacerbated Port- au-Prince’s isolation, and at least one major airline has announced that it will not return to Haiti for the foreseeable future. That marks the second time in less than a year that commercial operations at the airport have been suspended, leaving the population of the capital increasingly cut off from the rest of the country and the world. Shortly after, gangs launched coordinated and simultaneous attacks across the capital, including in areas previously untouched by such violence. Those attacks, aimed at destabilizing State institutions, triggered violent responses from self-defence groups, with residents armed with machetes and firearms. That cycle of violence in Port-au-Prince led to at least 220 deaths and displaced nearly 41,000 people. In December, armed gangs carried out mass killings in Wharf Jérémie, in the commune of Cité Soleil, resulting in 207 fatalities, mostly among the elderly. Meanwhile, the Artibonite department saw a sharp escalation in violence, with retaliatory attacks between gangs and self-defence groups, leading to 114 deaths. On 24 December, the State University Hospital in Port-au-Prince was attacked ahead of its reopening ceremony, resulting in the deaths of a police officer and two journalists. However, the challenges faced by the Haitian National Police remain immense, with high attrition rates, insufficient specialized training and a lack of equipment. Enhanced international assistance is critical. I take this opportunity to thank Member States for their contributions in personnel and through the trust fund for the Multinational Security Support Mission and the Council for its steadfast support of the Support Mission. Once again, I commend Kenya for its leadership. I urge Member States to provide additional contributions to ensure the success of that multinational effort. The worsening security crisis has significantly impacted United Nations operations. In response to the suspension of flights to Port-au-Prince and the widespread violence, the United Nations decided to temporarily reduce its footprint in the capital, while continuing to provide life-saving assistance. That mechanism has enabled the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH), with a skeleton team, and United Nations agencies to continue to deliver on their mandates through hybrid efforts, combining national staff and a critical international presence in Port- au-Prince with remote work. The United Nations remains committed to scaling up its presence as soon as security conditions permit, continuously monitoring the security environment to ensure the safety of personnel while delivering assistance to those in need. (spoke in French) The political landscape in Haiti has seen some positive developments since my most recent briefing to the Council (see S/PV.9757). Mr. Alix Didier Fils- Aimé was appointed as Prime Minister on 11 November 2024. Collaboration between the Government and the Transitional Presidential Council has improved. That cooperation has enabled progress to be made on key governance issues. Better coordination between the Transitional Presidential Council and the current Government has enabled the transition’s topmost priorities, namely, security, elections and social healing, to be successfully defined and targeted and has helped to move forward certain key governance decisions that were previously on hold. I welcome the appointment of the two remaining members of the Provisional Electoral Council. Four of the nine members are now women — an important step towards greater gender inclusion in the electoral process. I also welcome the appointment of the Junior Ministers for Electoral and Constitutional Affairs and for Solidarity and Humanitarian Affairs, which I hope will raise the profile of those two key portfolios. (spoke in English) In response to a request from the Haitian Government, the United Nations deployed an electoral needs assessment mission in November. The mission’s recommendations, approved by the United Nations focal point for electoral assistance matters, include targeted support for constitutional and electoral processes. Meanwhile, the national While there is progress on the political front and reason to be timidly hopeful, the transition framework remains fragile. The increasing fragmentation of the political sectors represented on the Transitional Presidential Council, combined with the persistent criticism of that Council, complicates the process. Serious corruption allegations targeting three members of the Council have heightened tensions and called into question the legitimacy of its actions. Recently, some political actors have sought assistance from the Eminent Persons Group of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to facilitate a national dialogue. A letter addressed to CARICOM by actors from three political groups that are part of the Transitional Presidential Council proposes different options for resolving disputes around that issue. However, the letter’s mention of a gang coalition sparked strong criticism, highlighting widespread opposition to any interaction with criminal gangs. Such developments show that any attempt to legitimize armed gangs is rejected by the majority of Haitian actors and the public in general. The humanitarian crisis in Haiti has reached alarming levels. More than 6 million people — nearly half the population — require humanitarian assistance, with 3.9 million targeted for aid. The number of internally displaced persons has tripled to more than 1 million, with more than half being children. Displacement sites are overcrowded and lack essential services, such as clean water, sanitation and education. Food insecurity affects 48 per cent of the population, with nearly 2 million people in emergency conditions — that is, Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) 4  — and 6,000 in catastrophic conditions  — that is, IPC 5. Despite those challenges, humanitarian partners conducted 700 United Nations missions in the fourth quarter, including 500 directly related to life-saving assistance. The 2025 humanitarian response plan requires $908 million, and I call on donors to contribute generously to alleviate suffering and support recovery. (spoke in French) At this crucial time, Haiti needs the continuing support of Member States more than ever before. In order to organize a constitutional review process and credible, participatory and inclusive elections in this crisis situation, Haitian stakeholders must overcome their differences and work together. A lasting solution requires simultaneous progress on the political and security fronts, supported by ongoing international solidarity. BINUH will continue to provide its good offices and strategic support to help Haiti to overcome the complex challenges.

I thank Ms. Salvador for her briefing. I now give the floor to Ms. Waly.

I thank you, Mr. President, for giving me the opportunity to speak about the situation in Haiti pursuant to resolution 2692 (2023), as renewed by resolution 2743 (2024). Since I last briefed the Council (see S/PV.9613), the violence in Haiti has continued to escalate. The various gang coalitions continue their efforts to extend their control At the same time, the territorial expansion of those gangs indicates calculated action, rather than arbitrary violence, aimed at the control of resources and collaboration with the political and economic elites. The gangs currently control approximately 85 per cent of Port-au-Prince, most of which is now divided among the various gang coalitions. Their hold on the country continues to be facilitated by illicit trafficking and corruption, as demonstrated by the sixth report of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), mandated by the Security Council, which I have the honour to present to the Council today. (spoke in English) The picture presented by the report shows that the reduction in violence seen between May and September 2024 was reversed during the three months that followed. Among the most notable developments, the Viv Ansanm gang coalition intensified attacks and seized control of key areas in and around Port-au-Prince, including chokepoints outside the city, which they are using to pressure and strangle the areas that remain outside its control, such as Pétion-Ville. The ongoing violence and instability are compounded by illicit arms flows, drug trafficking and other illicit markets and are underpinned by corruption and money- laundering. Despite the reinforcement of the arms embargo, weapons and ammunition trafficking continue to flow into Haiti and into the hands of gangs. Reports suggest that that includes high-calibre firearms and ammunition, including multiple high- powered Barrett M82A1 precision rifles, which are used as anti-vehicle weapons. Firearm trafficking routes are also shifting at both source and destination. During the reporting period, firearms seizures linked to Haiti in the United States were primarily reported in Port Everglades, not Miami, and in Haiti, most seizures were reported in Cap-Haïtien, not Port-au-Prince. That may suggest that successful interdiction efforts have caused traffickers to explore other routes. We also saw firearms and ammunition diverted from public and private stockpiles in Haiti and in the region falling into the hands of gangs. An example of that is the recent Operation Pandora in the Dominican Republic. The authorities discovered and dismantled a network that diverted at least 900,000 rounds of ammunition from Dominican Republic police stockpiles into illegal markets, including in border areas. Investigations are ongoing in that case, and we await the findings to understand the quantities of ammunition that may have been trafficked into Haiti. I want to commend the authorities in the Dominican Republic for that effort, which showcases that illicit flows of weapons in the region can be detected and halted. Nevertheless, weapons and ammunition continue to reach Haiti. Haiti needs stronger capacities to register, control and trace firearms and ammunition, including seized weapons and private stockpiles, as well as to collect, request and analyse firearms seizure data. Maritime and land border control on the Haiti-Dominican Republic border needs to be enhanced with equipment, human resources and improved information sharing. In addition, stronger controls are needed for ships departing Florida not only for Haiti but also for the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos, which traffickers are now using as transit destinations. The violence in Haiti continues to be compounded and fuelled by illicit markets, and the drug trade is key among them. Over the past decades, criminal actors have turned Haiti into a drug trafficking node, and evidence suggests that a small group Moreover, there are also other illicit markets that are booming in Haiti alongside the drug trade, including wildlife crime. There is growing evidence that several Haitian nationals are part of a wider criminal network connected to lucrative eel trafficking, operating in Haiti and beyond. Some reports indicate that powerful political and economic figures in Haiti use the eel industry to launder drug profits. The Haitian authorities need support to start analysing and investigating money- laundering linked to the illegal wildlife trade. Insecurity, instability and economic hardship continue to drive people to flee Haiti, while regional migration policies and dynamics are affecting the nature of their journeys. Airspace closures and hardline anti-migration policies in the region, as well as stricter controls in the Darien Gap and the shutdown of the international airport in Port-au-Prince, are leading Haitians to take more risk to escape, using the services of migrant smugglers, who are ready to put them at risk. Haitian nationals are increasingly being smuggled through dangerous routes by sea to countries such as the Dominican Republic, the Bahamas, Jamaica and Turks and Caicos, looking to make it onwards to the United States and Canada. Haiti is also witnessing an alarming surge in human trafficking, particularly child trafficking by gangs. Gangs such as 400 Mawozo, Nan Brooklyn, Baz Taliban and Village de Dieu exploit malnourishment, as well as a lack of education and parental supervision, to coerce and deceive children into joining their ranks. They also use social media for recruitment, reportedly offering payments of up to $200 for prospective members. In 2024, UNICEF estimated that children account for 30 to 50 per cent of gang members in Haiti after their recruitment increased by 70 per cent last year. Laws against human trafficking need to be implemented more effectively through law enforcement units that are trained and equipped to address human trafficking and gang-related crimes involving children, and measures need to be in place for the eventual reintegration of children and young people leaving such groups. Corruption and money-laundering continue to undermine prospects for stability in Haiti, while enabling trafficking and organized crime. In December, Haiti took an important step in the fight against corruption, with the establishment of the inter-institutional anti-corruption task force, supported by UNODC, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme and the Organization of American States. We hope that that task force can inject new energy into the pursuit of integrity and accountability. Haiti’s Anti-Corruption Unit is already working with other Haitian authorities to crack down on corruption, even in the difficult circumstances. In November, the criminal court of Hinche sentenced an inspector at the Directorate General of Taxes to four years in prison for embezzlement of public funds after an investigation by the Anti-Corruption Unit. The court also ordered the restitution of the embezzled funds. That marks the second corruption conviction in Haiti in 20 years, and it offers a vital glimmer of hope. We must build on that achievement by helping to improve capacities in Haiti’s judiciary to enable it to act on reports from oversight bodies, such as the Anti-Corruption Unit. Before I conclude, I want to reiterate the recommendations of UNODC’s latest report, as well as the ones that preceded it. In particular, I want to underline the importance of enhancing Haitian operational capacities against trafficking, improving regional cooperation and information sharing and strengthening Haiti’s I would like to re-emphasize the robust partnership between UNODC and the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti and our strong collaboration on logistics and operations. I would also like to thank Kenya for its leadership on that matter. Together, we must stand with Haiti in confronting violence, corruption and chaos for a more stable and secure future for the Haitian people.

I thank Ms. Waly for her briefing. I shall now give the floor to those members of the Council who wish to make statements.

I thank Special Representative Salvador for her briefing and for the efforts of the team of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH). I also thank United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime Executive Director Waly for her briefing. It is clear from the briefings that Haiti continues to face significant challenges in both governance and security. The transitional Government should prioritize governance over competing personal and political interests. Now is not the time for political infighting. We encourage the Transitional Presidential Council to continue working with BINUH to support the political transition and the people of Haiti. That includes working together in setting the conditions for free and fair elections. We strongly encourage Haitian efforts aimed at addressing corruption allegations and promoting transparency and accountability. Those measures are essential for the transition Government to maintain the trust of the Haitian people. Ensuring that women and youth meaningfully participate in the political process is also important, and we encourage BINUH to continue its work in that regard. On the security side, gang violence is rampant. Coordinated attacks by gangs have forced tens of thousands of residents from their homes and continue at very alarming levels, including targeted killings, mass rapes, kidnappings, forced recruitment, exploitation and trafficking of children by gangs. The United States condemns the ongoing attacks and escalation of gang violence in Port-au-Prince and throughout the country. Gang brutality continues to terrorize the Haitian people, cutting off necessary lifelines, including humanitarian assistance. In September, the Security Council designated Prophane Victor and Luckson Elan for assets freezes and travel bans. We commend the efforts of the Multinational Security Support Mission, led by Kenya, in assisting the Haitian people to stabilize the situation, and we encourage international donors to increase their funding support. Now more than ever, the security situation must be improved. Working closely with the Haitian National Police, the Mission has worked to protect residents of several areas and to repel gangs, capture weapons and eliminate multiple gang members. We welcome the comprehensive assessment that the United Nations is currently undertaking, and we look forward to the Secretary-General’s report on the full range of options on roles the United Nations can play to address the crisis. For our part, the United States is deploying every tool at its disposal, and we are working closely with BINUH, the Haitian Government, the Multinational Security Support Mission and the international community to drive progress forward. To support the people of Haiti amid the multidimensional crisis, Haiti needs humanitarian assistance to provide immediate life-saving services. We call on all involved to respect humanitarian organizations, which are in Haiti to impartially provide emergency food assistance, healthcare and other life-saving aid to all those in need. In conclusion, the Haitian people must have the security and freedom to engage in daily activities without fear, whether it be going to work, school or a house of

We would like to thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Ms. María Isabel Salvador, and the Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Ms. Ghada Waly, for their briefings on the situation in Haiti. Time and again, after such briefings, we must regretfully admit that the situation in the country continues to deteriorate unabated. We can see that the number of murders and acts of violence continues to rise, putting Haiti on a par with the States struggling with internal armed conflicts. Last year was the bloodiest year in Haiti’s recent history, with the massacres in Wharf Jérémie and Petite Rivière de l’Artibonite being the most recent shocking manifestations of the chaos into which the Caribbean nation has descended. It is not by chance that crime and lawlessness are raging in the country, but instead it is the fitting result of the vacuum of democratically elected power, which has lasted for several years already. Unfortunately, the temporary structures created according to foreign templates cannot cope with the tasks assigned to them and have already used up much of the trust placed on them. We see that the Transitional Presidential Council has failed to convince the Haitians of its legitimacy and effectiveness. The prospects for holding general elections within the agreed time frame are illusory. We call on local political forces, which bear the main responsibility for overcoming the crisis, to put aside their differences and work together to save the country and the lives of their fellow citizens. Until the Haitians themselves are willing to do something and organize themselves properly no one will be able to bring stability back to their country and create conditions for sustainable and progressive development. We understand that the local authorities have insufficient resources to single-handedly provide security for their people, and the country’s scant police, whatever resilience it has shown, cannot cope with rampant banditry. About a year and a half ago, we were assured that a solution had been found and that the Council only had to approve the establishment of a non-United Nations mission, with funding, logistics and personnel allegedly provided for it. Unfortunately, we could see for ourselves very quickly that it was not the case. Ultimately, largely owing to the failure to address those issues, the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti faced a whole host of problems, many of which could have been predicted and prevented. We pay tribute to the bravery of the police officers from Kenya and the countries of the region, and we commend the recent arrival on the island of an additional contingent from Nairobi. At the same time, given its current composition and allocated funding, the Mission is not able to ensure long-term stabilization beyond a few neighbourhoods of the capital. We call on the donors behind that initiative to provide the pledged funding for the operation so that it can be fully deployed to carry out the tasks assigned to it pursuant to the mandate given by the Security Council. It seems to us that only once the potential and possibilities of the Multinational Security Support Mission are fully realized will it be possible to talk about any adaptation of the international presence in Haiti. We trust that there will be a comprehensive analysis of the situation and that the Secretariat, which is now working on the relevant report, will provide well thought-through options. In the meantime, in addition to reinforcing the Mission, the international community would be well-advised to focus its attention on another obvious problem that has a direct impact on the situation in Haiti. I am referring to the unhindered influx of weapons into Haiti, despite the territorial embargo in force. We are all As the work of the Panel of Experts has shown, targeted sanctions against gang leaders and their associates are not working properly either. We are compelled to say that there is no institutional foundation in Haiti whatsoever for the effective implementation of the Security Council’s restrictions. Russia will continue to take a careful and balanced approach to the issue of imposing sanctions on individuals in the context of Haiti, and we will take decisions on the basis of a comprehensive analysis of the information, including with regard to the potential impact of proposed measures on the political process in the country. We also recommend that all of our colleagues on the Council follow suit. Abrupt shifts and going from one extreme to the other only prevent us from providing Haitians with the assistance that they really need so that, ultimately, they can stand on their own two feet and independently take decisions on the problems confronting the State.

Let me also thank Special Representative Salvador and Executive Director Waly of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime for their briefings today. Today’s briefing and the reports that we have received paint a sobering picture — a picture of a country engulfed in crisis, its people battling the relentless grip of insecurity, deprivation and despair. Today I wish to make three points. First, Denmark is gravely concerned by the dire security situation in Haiti, characterized by widespread and indiscriminate violence by armed gangs against the population. The escalation of coordinated gang attacks against civilians and the State are cause for alarm. We condemn in the strongest terms the multiple massacres by gangs in Haiti over recent months. More than 5,600 people were killed in Haiti last year by gang violence, with many more injured and nearly 1,500 kidnapped. These numbers are simply staggering. Establishing security in Haiti must be a priority for the Haitian Government and the international community. It is crucial that the capacities of the Haitian National Police be strengthened to tackle the rising insecurity. In that regard, Denmark supports the efforts of the Multinational Security Support Mission in assisting the Haitian National Police to bring security and order to the country. We welcome the recent deployments by Guatemala, El Salvador and Kenya to support the Mission. As the Special Representative of the Secretary-General clearly outlined, there is an urgent need to scale up financial and logistical support for the Multinational Security Support Mission to ensure that it is equipped to meet its aims. We look forward to receiving recommendations from the Secretary-General on the full range of options available to the United Nations in promoting more sustainable security support for Haiti. The use of targeted sanctions is also an important tool to address the root causes of gang violence. That is especially true of the collusion among the political, economic and security sectors and the illicit flow of arms into the country. My second point is that Denmark is alarmed by the humanitarian and human rights crises in Haiti. More than 1 million people are internally displaced, more than half of them children. Hunger has reached half of the population, and preventable diseases continue to spread. Haiti’s healthcare system is also under attack. Criminal gangs have murdered and kidnapped medical workers and burned, ransacked and Moreover, human rights abuses are rampant. Women and girls bear the consequences of conflict and violence, including systematic sexual and gender-based violence. Children have been forcibly recruited into gangs and are estimated to make up to 50 per cent of members, robbing them of their childhoods and putting their lives at risk. Those crimes underscore the urgent need for all the Haitian authorities to strengthen protection, accountability and support for survivors. Impunity for crimes must be urgently addressed by the Haitian authorities, with the support of the international community. My third point is that despite some progress, Haiti continues to experience political turbulence. We are concerned at the slow progress made on the political road map, which is greatly hindered by disagreements on power-sharing. We urge Haitian leaders to uphold the principles that they agreed upon and prioritize dialogue. We stress that any dialogue and any process must prioritize the full, equal, meaningful and safe participation of women and other marginalized groups. We welcome the establishment of a complete Provisional Electoral Council and a National Security Council and look forward to progress on the constitutional review. They represent crucial steps towards the holding of free, fair and inclusive elections. In conclusion, the Haitian authorities must work together to restore democratic institutions. The international community must support Haiti towards stability, development and peace. Denmark is committed to that goal.

I would like to thank the Special Representative, Ms. Salvador, and the Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Ms. Waly, for their briefings. I would also like to welcome to our meeting the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Worship of Haiti, the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Dominican Republic and the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Colombia. Greece stands in solidarity with the Haitian people and feels that it is our duty to honour the special historical bond that we share with this proud island nation, which was the first to recognize Greece’s independence 200 years ago. Haiti continues to grapple with a multitude of crises, from natural disasters, epidemics to food insecurity, as well as internal displacement, which has reached unprecedented levels and is affecting more than 1 million Haitians, according to the latest data from the International Organization for Migration. That critical humanitarian situation is further exacerbated by extreme gang violence aimed at destabilizing the Government. Greece condemns the indiscriminate attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure for the delivery of humanitarian assistance, such as the international airport, and the targeting of schools and hospitals, which deprives Haitians of access to basic education and healthcare services. We also denounce the human rights violations perpetrated by criminal groups, including homicides, abductions, the recruitment and use of children as fighters and rape and sexual violence against women and girls. In that respect, providing support to the victims is of key importance. We also deplore the attacks against journalists, which threaten the freedom of speech and democracy in Haiti. Greece supports an inclusive and sustainable Haitian-led political transition, aimed at restoring the rule of law and stability in the country and at ensuring, as a matter of priority, the safety of the friendly Haitian people. In that regard, we welcome the commitment of the new Prime Minister, Mr. Fils-Aimé, to working closely with the Transitional Presidential Council to improve security and governance, while we emphasize the imperative of promoting accountability within the Transitional Presidential Council. Moreover, we commend the completion of the composition of The political transition cannot proceed effectively while security conditions remain precarious. In that regard, we commend the Multinational Security Support Mission and Kenya for their leadership and all contributing countries for their support to the Haitian National Police. There have been some relevant positive developments in the recent months, such as the graduation of more than 700 new police officers of the Haitian National Police on 10 January, 30 per cent of whom were women. We look forward to the Secretary-General’s recommendations on the potential transformation of the Multinational Security Support Mission, and we stand ready to assess all options and work constructively with our fellow Council members and the Haitian Government to determine the most effective path forward. The Haitian crisis also has significant regional implications that we cannot overlook, such as migration and the trafficking of illicit arms and drugs. In that regard, we support our partners in the region and welcome the efforts by the Caribbean Community to foster stability, security and a peaceful transition of power in Haiti. We also acknowledge the valuable contributions of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, in particular the training delivered to the Haitian coast guard, which is capable of significantly enhance maritime security in the region. In conclusion, I would like to express Greece’s unwavering support for the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti and the Special Representative of the Secretary- General in their engagement with all national stakeholders. We believe that only political will and national unity can break the cycle of violence and help Haiti and its friendly people to finally move towards the stability, peace and development that they deserve.

I thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti, Ms. Salvador, and the Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Ms. Waly, for their briefings. I welcome the presence in the Council of the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Haiti and his counterparts from the Dominican Republic and Colombia. As is the case at every Council meeting, we take stock of the deterioration of the situation in Haiti. Gang violence has further intensified, as we regrettably saw with the Wharf Jérémie massacre in December 2024, which claimed 207 lives. More than 1 million people are internally displaced, three times as many as were a year ago. Nearly half the members of armed groups are children, and their number is steadily rising. International efforts to restore security in Haiti are essential. In that regard, France welcomes the deployment of 217 new Kenyan police officers as part of the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti, followed by 152 Guatemalan and 8 Salvadoran military personnel. The role played by troop-contributing countries is essential in supporting the Haitian National Police and preventing the collapse of security institutions. France is lending its full support by increasing its contributions to the Multinational Security Support Mission to $10 million — $8 million to the trust fund for the Mission and $2 million via the International Organization of la Francophonie for pre-deployment training in French and Creole. In addition, since 2023, we have provided €2 million in bilateral aid to the Haitian National Police, whose role in the fight against gangs is crucial. Finally, in these difficult conditions, France reiterates its support for the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti, to which it We are aware that international efforts must be stepped up to halt the cycle of violence. France calls for greater involvement on the part of the United Nations. Our position has not changed. We are convinced that the United Nations can provide strategic and operational expertise, in addition to essential logistical support. The sustainability of international support for security in Haiti depends on it. With that in mind, we must respond to Haiti’s request to consider a transition from the Multinational Mission to a peacekeeping operation as soon as possible. In that regard, we await the Secretary-General’s report on options, and we stand ready to work with all Council members on that matter. All those efforts should help to create a framework conducive to progress in the political transition process. France continues to call on all Haitian political stakeholders to work together to make progress on the fight against corruption and impunity and on ensuring respect for human rights. The finalization of the composition of the Provisional Electoral Council is a step in the right direction. Every effort must be made by the Government of Mr. Alix Didier Fils-Aimé to organize the elections. In the short term, international solidarity is essential to meet the urgent needs of the Haitian people. France has allocated €16.5 million in humanitarian aid for 2024 to combat food insecurity and assist displaced populations, and it will continue to play its part fully in that joint effort.

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the three African members of the Security Council plus (A3+), namely, Algeria, Sierra Leone, Somalia and my own country, Guyana. We thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Salvador and Executive Director Waly for their sobering briefings and welcome the participation of the Ministers for Foreign Affairs of Haiti, the Dominican Republic and Colombia in today’s meeting. The A3+ is deeply concerned about the deterioration of the security situation in Haiti, as highlighted in the Secretary General’s report (S/2025/28) and echoed by today’s briefers. The reported human rights abuses being perpetuated are disturbing. We are particularly alarmed at the many cases of abuses against children, including the more than 1,000 per cent increase in verified cases of rape and other forms of sexual violence committed against children in 2024 compared to 2023, as reported by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict. The children of Haiti are facing increasingly daunting challenges, and we call on all Haitian stakeholders to take concrete actions to prevent all forms of violence against children and to ensure their access to comprehensive response systems. There must be adequate measures to ensure the protection of children, including those recruited by gangs. We commend the unwavering commitment and efforts of United Nations agencies and international and local non-governmental organizations in responding to the pressing humanitarian needs of the Haitian population, especially as the number of internally displaced people continues to rise and food insecurity remains a serious concern. We also call for increased support by the international community to meet the growing humanitarian needs. The A3+ reiterates our commitment to supporting the efforts of the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti as it works alongside the Haitian National Police (HNP) to address the violence that is plaguing the country and to reinstate law and order. While progress has been minimal, we believe that it is crucial for the Council Mindful of the current situation, the A3+ awaits the Secretary-General’s response to the Council’s request for strategic-level recommendations with a full range of options for the possible role that the United Nations can play in sustaining security and stability and addressing the root causes of the crisis. The A3+ stresses that all aspects of Haiti’s multidimensional crisis must be addressed simultaneously. In particular, it is clear that sustained progress in the security situation cannot be achieved without significant advances in the political process. In that context, we support the call on the leaders to focus on dialogue and inclusivity by facilitating the meaningful involvement of all segments of society, including women and youth, in order to guarantee national unity in achieving the goals of the transitional objectives. Moreover, we highlight that strengthening Haiti’s institutions for justice, restoring the rule of law and strengthening the police and justice systems are essential for achieving sustainable peace. We also emphasize the need for resolute action in support of the Haitian Government’s efforts to combat the trafficking and proliferation of illegal arms and illicit financial flows that enable criminal activity in Haiti. The rebuilding of the country’s democratic institutions and a return to constitutional order are urgent and essential. We strongly urge the transitional Government to continue its efforts towards a transparent, Haitian-led and inclusive process that will lead to free and fair elections within the established time frame. We urge them and all stakeholders to put Haiti first. In that regard, we commend the finalization of the composition of the Provisional Electoral Council and urge it to take steadfast action in accelerating the process towards organizing credible elections. We note that in combination with elections, constitutional reform is an essential element in advancing the restoration of Haiti’s democratic institutions, and we applaud the ongoing consultations with key sectors being conducted by the steering committee of the National Conference for the constitutional revision process. We take positive note of the United Nations electoral needs assessment mission that was conducted in November 2024 and that has since produced recommendations for continued United Nations assistance for the electoral process. We also commend the Caribbean Community’s continued support of Haiti, including through the provision of resources for the continued functioning of the Eminent Persons Group. The Group’s ongoing engagement with Haiti’s political stakeholders provides an essential mechanism for regional leadership in finding solutions to this crisis. While the situation faced by the Haitian people continues to be tragic and, at times, appears bereft of progress, the Council cannot resign itself to accepting the status quo. The people of Haiti are no less deserving than any other people of peace, stability and economic prosperity. It is therefore our duty and responsibility to continue to pursue long-term, sustainable solutions that will allow the people of Haiti to restore peace, rebuild their country and forge pathways to a prosperous future. The A3+ is committed to that pursuit. As highlighted in the briefings, Haiti continues to face a dire multidimensional crisis, despite concerted efforts by the international community, including the Security Council, the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti, the Multinational Security Support Mission and regional partners. Haiti’s security challenges and its political transition are closely interlinked. Meaningful progress in the political process cannot occur without corresponding advances in security. Reversing the situation in Haiti will not happen overnight — it requires sustained, long-term efforts. Even small, incremental steps can make a difference. When effectively combined, those steps can collectively propel Haiti and its people towards stability and development. Politically, we have seen some developments since December. The Provisional Electoral Council has been established, and the new Prime Minister is collaborating closely with the Transitional Presidential Council on practical matters. To complement that political development, we also need a catalyst on the security front. I believe, above all, that the implementation of Security Council resolutions, particularly the arms embargo, must be strengthened. As the briefers stressed, coordinated gang violence against civilians and critical infrastructure has intensified in the capital and in other regions. As a result, at least 5,000 people were killed and more than 1 million people were internally displaced in Haiti in 2024 alone. That gang violence continues to escalate as criminals constantly acquire illegally trafficked arms and ammunition from foreign sources. Moreover, arms trafficking, as well as drug and human trafficking, has become increasingly organized and sophisticated, amid entrenched corruption in Haiti. The international community must step up its efforts to decisively reduce arms flows and illegal trafficking to Haiti. In addition to the arms embargo, the international community has made concerted efforts to address security challenges in Haiti, culminating in the deployment of the Multinational Security Support Mission in 2023  — an innovative mission model relying on voluntary contributions from Member States. Since then, despite some progress in collaboration with Kenya and other contributors, the Mission has fallen short of expectations, primarily owing to resource and financial constraints. With its full operation being delayed, the security situation in Haiti continues to deteriorate, a source of deep concern for my delegation. However, there have been some hopeful signs regarding the Multinational Security Support Mission. Kenya deployed an additional 215 police officers last week, adding to its 400 personnel already on the ground. Guatemala and El Salvador also contributed more than 150 personnel this month. To build on that momentum, the Republic of Korea has decided to contribute to the Multinational Security Support Mission trust fund, with the same determination and commitment it demonstrated when deploying our peacekeeping forces to Haiti from 2010 to 2012. Today I am pleased to announce that, last week, the Government of the Republic of Korea made a financial contribution of approximately $10 million to the Multinational Security Support Mission trust fund. We hope that that contribution will inspire greater international attention and support for Haiti. We sincerely hope that Haiti, with robust international assistance, will transition from a state of crisis to one of national development.

I would like to thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Salvador for her valuable briefing. I would also like to thank Haiti remains in turmoil. With every passing day, the country appears to be descending further into a maelstrom created by prolonged political instability, deteriorating security and an escalating humanitarian crisis. All three facets of the situation are interlinked. The political turmoil since President Jovenel Moïse’s assassination has continued. Progress towards the restoration of democratically elected institutions has stalled, and it is likely to lag behind the agreed timeline of February 2026. We take note of the recent appointment of a new Prime Minister, Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, by the Transitional Presidential Council. The Haitian political leadership bears the primary responsibility of charting a clear course for the future of their country and instilling hope among its people. A Haitian-led and Haitian-owned process is essential to establish sustainable security and address the humanitarian challenges. The security situation in Haiti remains alarming, with rampant gang violence and associated brutality. Those gangs seem to have the capacity to sustain prolonged attacks, targeting civilians, police and other law enforcement and judicial authorities. Apart from the gang violence, the widespread violence in Haiti being perpetrated by vigilantes or self-defence groups, mob killings and the lynching of alleged gang members and people involved in minor crimes, including children, is fast engulfing the entire Haitian society. This is a most worrisome situation. It is essential to prevent, in this context, the flow of arms to the gangs and to other violent groups via the strict implementation of the arms embargo. The intricate mix of political and security challenges in Haiti has exacerbated the humanitarian situation, marked by growing food insecurity, a lack of health and education facilities for children and rising numbers of internally displaced people, as well as the deportation of Haitians from countries in the region. We remain particularly concerned by the disproportionate impact of the current situation on women and children. We commend Kenya, Jamaica, the Bahamas and Belize and, more recently, Guatemala for contributing their personnel to the Multinational Security Support Mission. We welcome the recent deployment of 150 security personnel from Guatemala and 200 additional troops from Kenya. We endorse the Secretary- General’s calls for more support for the Multinational Security Support Mission to enable it to better assist the Haitian National Police in maintaining law and order in the country and to fight back against the Haitian gangs to re-establish peace in the country. The regional countries, including major Powers in the region, must assume the primary responsibility for extending support and providing necessary financial aid to Haiti. We must also analyse the structural and other shortcomings of the Multinational Security Support Mission in order to determine how best to support and strengthen the Mission or develop additional or alternate mechanisms to build and restore security in Haiti. For nearly three decades now, the Security Council has been seized of the situation in Haiti. The United Nations role has been prominent in the form of earlier peacekeeping operations — BINUH, targeted sanctions and now the Multinational Security Support Mission. Yet, durable peace and stability has remained elusive. Clearly, what is required is a deep analysis and the development, together with the My delegation looks forward to the Secretary-General’s report on the possible next steps that the Council and the international community can take to address the challenges confronting Haiti.

Panama thanks Algeria for convening this important briefing on the situation in Haiti. We are also grateful for the briefings by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Haiti, Ms. María Isabel Salvador, and the Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Ms. Ghada Fathi Waly. We are delighted to acknowledge the participation of the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Worship of Haiti, the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Dominican Republic and the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Colombia. We take note of the report of the Secretary-General pursuant to resolution 2743 (2024) (S/2025/28) and again express concern about the continuing decline in security in Haiti, particularly in Port-au-Prince, where daily life has become increasingly impossible. We are aware of the delicate situation, but we would also like to welcome the completion of the composition of the Provisional Electoral Council, an essential body in advancing the political electoral process, which is so needed in the country. On the other hand, we also express concern that the transition process in Haiti has been affected by political differences. In the current complex national context that the country is facing, we trust that those differences can be resolved, making it possible for progress to be made towards a stable, transparent and sustainable transition process. Panama draws attention to the continued deterioration of human rights and the worsening of the humanitarian crisis in Haiti in 2024, which has reached alarming levels, increasing the vulnerability of women and children. As indicated in the reports on sexual violence, including gang rapes and the recruitment of children by gangs, we agree that there is an urgent need to strengthen protection measures, ensure accountability and provide comprehensive support to victims. We reiterate that the protection of civilians must be at the centre of any effort to resolve the crisis in Haiti. The persistent and widespread violence has had a severe impact on the civilian population, exacerbating insecurity, forced displacement and the collapse of essential basic services, further aggravating the already critical humanitarian situation in the country. More than 703,000 people in Haiti have been forced into internal displacement owing to the growing humanitarian crisis, and according to the International Organization for Migration, that figure could have already exceeded 1 million. Those displaced communities face a high risk of becoming victims of transnational organized crime. They are especially vulnerable to human and migrant smuggling and related crimes, including sexual and labour exploitation. That situation calls for a coordinated international response to protect those most affected and to address the underlying causes of forced displacement. My country is witnessing the consequences of the forced displacement of the Haitian population. In 2024, 11,954 Haitians crossed our border with Colombia irregularly in search of refuge and safety. Panama reaffirms its support for the work of the United Nations entities with mandates focused on the situation in Haiti and reiterates its commitment to continue supporting those efforts to meet the country’s needs in its search for stability and development. We express our full support to the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti, recognizing the vital role it plays in supporting the Haitian authorities in key areas such as the promotion of political stability, the strengthening of Government institutions and the defence of human rights. Panama strongly supports the effective implementation of resolution 2653 (2022), which establishes the arms embargo as a crucial action to interrupt the supply of criminal gangs responsible for perpetuating violence in Haiti, in addition to supporting efforts to weaken the criminal structures that affect the security of the entire region. In that context, we underscore the importance of taking coordinated regional and international action to strengthen collective security, combat transnational organized crime and promote stability in the countries most affected by the crisis. We also express our full support for the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti, led by Kenya. In that regard, we would like to reiterate our appreciation for the deployment of the 150 Guatemalan military personnel, the Salvadoran advance guard and the recent dispatch of additional Kenyan units. I would like to conclude by inviting Council members to reflect on how we can strengthen the current Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti and what additional measures could be implemented to address the crisis more effectively. It is essential to support the strengthening of institutions in Haiti, with a particular emphasis on the judicial system and on ensuring accountability for criminal gangs. As we continue to await the recommendations of the Secretary-General, we note the advisability of considering the possible transformation of the proposed multinational mission into a peacekeeping operation under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations. That possibility — the dynamics of its possible implementation and the options for its sustainable financing — merit further analysis, evaluation and consideration so as to determine whether or not they would help promote a more robust mandate and with the necessary resources to comprehensively address the root causes of the conflict and contribute to sustainable stability and security in Haiti.

I wish to thank Special Representative Salvador and Executive Director Waly for their briefings. I also welcome the participation of the Foreign Ministers of Haiti, the Dominican Republic and Colombia, and the representatives of Canada, Suriname and Kenya in today’s meeting. Ten days ago, Haiti commemorated the fifteenth anniversary of the devastating earthquake that claimed hundreds of thousands of lives and continues to affect the Haitian population to this day. In addition to almost perpetual political crisis, a human-made catastrophe of armed gang violence has been shaking the foundations of the country. Reports of more than 5,000 people killed in 2024, along with millions suffering from acute hunger, displacement or both, paint a grim picture of the ongoing human tragedy that remains an everyday reality for Haitians. In that regard, we condemn in the strongest possible terms the attack carried out by the Wharf Jérémie gang in early December of last year in Cité Soleil, which resulted in more than 200 civilian casualties, primarily among older persons. We note the heightened risk that older persons face in conflict situations such as Haiti. Effectively combating armed gangs and preventing illicit flows of weapons and ammunition that fuel their activities requires decisive action on both the security and political fronts. In that regard, we welcome the deployment of nearly 400 new troops from El Salvador, Guatemala and Kenya to Haiti as part of the Multinational Furthermore, as the Mission operates in close coordination with the Haitian National Police, the latter, along with the broader criminal justice sector, must also be strengthened. In parallel, it is of the utmost importance for all Haitian stakeholders to accelerate the transition to democratic institutions through a constitutional review and free, fair and credible elections in order to prevent further political instability that could again be exploited by armed gangs. Let me reiterate Slovenia’s concern about high levels of human rights abuses and the ongoing deteriorating humanitarian situation amid the persisting security crisis caused by armed gang violence. We condemn, in particular, all forms of sexual and gender-based violence, most often targeting women and girls as a weapon to control and terrorize communities and express alarm over the increased forced recruitment and exploitation of children by gangs. A thorough investigation by the authorities is needed to ensure that the perpetrators of these and all other human rights abuses and violations are brought to justice, addressing the widespread state of impunity in accordance with the rule of law. We continue to call for allowing and facilitating full, safe, rapid and unhindered humanitarian access to almost half of the Haitian population in need, including through the international airport in Port-au-Prince. As in the past, the Haitian people can count on our unwavering support in their urgent pursuit of security and stability.

I thank Special Representative Salvador and Executive Director Waly for their briefing and welcome the Foreign Ministers of Haiti, the Dominican Republic and Colombia and the representatives of Canada, Suriname and Kenya to today’s meeting. Since the Council last considered the issue of Haiti (see S/PV.9792), the situation has not changed. The Haitian authorities are weak and in disarray, the Haitian people are trapped in despair and the multiple crises persist and defy solutions. The sobering facts and grim situation remind us that it is necessary to deeply analyse the root causes of the Haitian crisis, accurately understand the roles of all stakeholders, carefully take stock of the effectiveness of previous initiatives and draw from historical experience and lessons, with a view to constantly improving our responses. In that regard, I wish to stress the following three points. First, I would like to touch upon the political process. The Secretary-General’s latest report clearly indicates that setbacks in the political process have made gang violence possible (S/2025/28). In the past year alone, Haiti’s interim Prime Minister has changed twice, the parties and factions are engaged in incessant infighting and there have been non-stop displays of abuse of power and corruption, rendering out of reach the goal of completing the political transition on schedule. The long-standing absence of legitimate authorities and the vacuum of national governance have plunged Haiti into a vicious cycle of chaos, gravely undermining the effectiveness of external support and the confidence of the Haitian people and the international community in Haiti’s prospects. Resolving the Haitian issue hinges on a Haitian-led and -owned political process. We reiterate our strong appeal to all parties and factions in Haiti to strengthen communication and consultation, seek unity and cooperation, put the interests of the country and the people first and accelerate a widely supported transitional process suited to Haiti’s reality so as to lay the foundation and create conditions for improving the security situation and helping the Government to effectively perform Secondly, on gang violence, China is deeply concerned about the rampant violence and deteriorating security situation in Haiti and is deeply saddened by the innocent people who have suffered so much. China fully agrees with the Secretary- General’s call on the Haitian authorities to take necessary actions to curb gang violence and maintain public order with the support of the international community. The gang problem in Haiti is becoming increasingly complex, with 85 per cent of the area in the capital Port-au-Prince are controlled by gangs, including densely populated neighbourhood. Many children have no choice but to join gangs to earn a living, and now account for as many as half of the gang members. As pointed out by the report of the Panel or Exports of the Committee established pursuant to resolution 2653 (2022), many gangs are colluding with Haitian politicians and businessmen and possess large quantities of advanced foreign weapons (see S/2024/704). We call on the Haitian authorities to focus on the political, security, economic and social impacts of the gang problem, adopt a holistic approach and improve the pertinence and effectiveness of combating and punishing gangs. Special attention should be given to bolstering the protection of innocent civilians and vulnerable groups, such as women and children. We call on the international community to recognize the root causes and breeding grounds of gang violence in Haiti and help the Haitian people to get rid of this persistent and wicked social malady with more tailored initiatives. We also call on all United Nations Member States to strictly abide by the Security Council’s arms embargo on Haiti and to take practical measures to enforce sanctions so as to cut off the supply of weapons and ammunition to the gangs. Thirdly, on external support, it must be noted that the decades-long chaos in Haiti is closely related to external disturbances and has everything to do with the long-term involvement and interference of the United States in Haiti. The United States bears an unshirkable responsibility for Haiti’s current plight of Haiti and its people. For several decades, the United States has repeatedly pressed the United Nations to intervene in the situation in Haiti. One year ago, it was the United States that initiated and pushed for the creation of a Multinational Security Support Mission under a Security Council’s mandate. The United States therefore has the greatest responsibility and obligation to support and assist the Mission to ensure that it delivers its mandate and plays its role. The United States also represents the largest source of weapons for Haitian gangs and so has the greatest responsibility and obligation to effectively enforce the arms embargo on Haiti and to put the relevant Security Council resolutions into practice. Owing to their geographical proximity and linked interests, the countries of the region are bearing the brunt of the spillover of the Haitian crisis. For some time now, the Caribbean Community and other regional organizations have conducted mediation efforts to advance the political process in Haiti. Some countries of the region have supported the Haitian police with concrete action. We encourage the countries of the region to continue their assistance to Haiti and in particular to step up their support to the Mission in various areas. The United Nations and the international community have been following Haiti’s trajectory and supporting it. With Special Representative of the Secretary-General Salvador at its helm, BINUH has remained in Haiti to carry out its work, which we greatly appreciate. In the past three years, the Security Council has adopted multiple resolutions on Haiti, and various United Nations agencies and departments have continued to provide humanitarian and development assistance to Haiti. It should be underscored that history has repeatedly proved that United Nations support can In conclusion, China hopes that the Secretary-General’s upcoming assessment report, at the request of the Security Council, will analyse the root causes of Haitian crisis, reflect the aspirations of all parties in Haiti, draw lessons from history and, based on listening to the views of all parties, put forward practical and feasible suggestions and recommendations on responding to the crisis in Haiti and the role of the United Nations. China stands ready to carefully consider the report once it is submitted, maintain communication with all parties and stand ready with the international community to continue constructive assistance to help Haiti to emerge from the crisis without delay.

I thank Special Representative of the Secretary- General Salvador and Executive Director Waly for their briefings today and pay tribute to the work of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti as it continues to operate in a seriously challenging environment. The United Kingdom welcomes the strong regional participation in this meeting, including the Ministers for Foreign Affairs of Haiti, the Dominican Republic and Colombia and the representatives of Suriname, Canada and Kenya. At least one Haitian was killed, kidnapped or injured every hour as a result of gang violence in 2024. Gangs continue to use executions, kidnappings and sexual violence as tools of oppression against civilians. That violence, compounded by profound political and economic instability, has displaced more than 1 million Haitian people, fundamentally disrupting the fabric of Haitian society. We call on Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council and Prime Minister Fils- Aimé and his Government to work towards the restoration of security in Haiti and the establishment of free and fair elections. We strongly urge all political actors to work together in the interests of all Haitian people. The targeting of commercial aircraft by gangs demonstrates the dangerous lengths they will go to forcibly exercise control over Haitian life. The United Kingdom is deeply concerned about the severe shortages of food, clean water and medical supplies, which are exacerbating the suffering of the Haitian people. Restoring stability in Haiti is essential for peace and security in the region. We commend the work of the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti and pay tribute to Kenya for its leadership. The United Kingdom has provided financing to support the Mission’s human rights compliance framework. It is clear that the security challenges faced are becoming more complex. We recognize and support the request from the Haitian Transitional Presidential Council to transition the Mission to a United Nations peacekeeping operation. We look forward to the Secretary-General’s report on the relevant recommendations and believe that a peacekeeping operation could offer the best hope for restoring longer- term security for the Government and the people of Haiti.

The representative of the United States has asked for the floor to make a further statement.

I asked to speak again because I felt it was important to reject the scapegoating that I regrettably heard during this meeting, and I would just respectfully suggest that the Security Council focus on finding solutions to the scourge of violence terrorizing the Haitian people rather than casting blame.

I now give the floor to the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Worship of Haiti. I acknowledge the Algerian presidency of the Security Council for this month of January 2025, and I wish it every success in leading the work of this important organ. I congratulate the members of the Council for their tireless commitment to peace, security and stability around the world and in particular for the sustained attention that they pay to the question concerning Haiti. I thank the Secretary- General for his detailed report (S/2025/28), which highlights the complex situation in Haiti and underscores the important role played by BINUH in supporting our political transition, the fight against insecurity and the strengthening of national institutions. In that regard, I would particularly like to congratulate the Head of BINUH, Ms. María Isabel Salvador, my friend, and the members of the Mission for the work that they have done to that end, despite the conditions they are working in, which are not always easy. In particular, I welcome the presence in today’s meeting of my counterparts from the Dominican Republic and Colombia  — Ministers Álvarez Gil and Murillo — which shows the importance that our closest neighbours, including the States of the Caribbean Community and Latin America, attach to the urgent need to improve the security situation in my country and above all that they are as concerned as we are about the consequences across the region of the actions of the armed gangs that are terrorizing our people. I also acknowledge the Ambassador of Kenya and the representatives of the international community who have come to offer their solidarity to our country and who are therefore taking the floor at this meeting. We listened with particular attention to the report presented by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General (S/2025/28). The observations and recommendations that it contains reflect a sophisticated grasp of the challenges we face, while acknowledging the progress achieved. We value those analyses and undertake to learn from their all-important lessons in order to bolster our national efforts. I also take note of the concerns expressed by the countries that are members of the Council and reaffirm the Haitian Government’s resolve to pursue a constructive and open dialogue with all our partners in order to meet the legitimate aspirations of the Haitian people. Despite a climate of violence, political instability and acute economic turmoil, Haiti has made significant progress that must be welcomed. The full constitution of the Provisional Electoral Council, which includes a balanced representation of women and civil society stakeholders, marks a crucial stride towards the holding of elections in Haiti. The forthcoming national consultations on constitutional reform further reflect our commitment to responding to the Haitian people’s expectations for more inclusive and effective institutions. On the security front, the Haitian National Police, with limited resources but unfaltering courage, is gradually regaining control of some key localities, breaking criminal gangs’ stranglehold on strategic areas. I take the opportunity to pay tribute to the courage and determination of our brave police officers, without whom the entire capital would have long since become a red zone. That heroic fight against organized crime has also been possible thanks to the support of the Haitian Armed Forces and the Multinational Security Support Mission, which are playing a decisive role in supporting security efforts in the most critical areas. Lastly, initiatives to Despite that progress, Haiti continues to confront significant major challenges that are threatening, now more than ever, the security of the population and the very survival of the State. Violence by armed gangs, marked by massacres, abductions and systematic human rights violations, continues to pose an existential threat. Those groups, which are equipped with weapons of war, are operating with complete impunity, laying down their law and paralysing the country’s economy. The economic crisis, which the insecurity exacerbates, has plunged millions of our fellow citizens into extreme poverty. Half the population is going hungry and hundreds of thousands of displaced families are living hand-to-mouth, often without access to basic services. Nevertheless, we are pleased to note the continued commitment of some members of the Multinational Security Support Mission. Once again, we salute Kenya’s determination to fight alongside us. Their dedication under extremely complex conditions attests to their solidarity and resolve amid the crisis that is destabilizing our nation. Nonetheless, it is crucial to point out that the current Mission remains seriously underfunded and underequipped. It does not have the air support it needs during its operations. Some of its equipment is unsuitable for the situation. The maritime space, particularly in the bay of Port-au-Prince, is not being patrolled. That handful of limitations, to mention but a few, are hampering its operational capacity to respond effectively to the magnitude of the security challenges that we are facing. We therefore welcome the arrival of the contingents from Guatemala and El Salvador, which have come to reinforce the Multinational Security Support Mission, thereby boosting its capacity to support the National Police’s operations against armed groups. However, we look forward to receiving the other contributions that, for far too long, have been promised. Faced with that state of affairs, we wish to reiterate our urgent call for swift and decisive action by the Council once the Secretary-General submits the report requested of him on the support that the United Nations could provide to Haiti. In that connection, the Haitian Government welcomes the input of the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs to the peacebuilding process in Haiti. My country has called for the Multinational Security Support Mission to be converted into a United Nations peacekeeping mission with a clear mandate, adequate resources and enhanced expertise. That transition is not only a logistical necessity, but also a strategic requirement for tackling the multiple threats facing our country. Haiti, the land of freedom, is now contending with challenges on an unprecedented scale. But amid the pain stands a courageous, resilient and dignified people, who never yield. Haiti is now appealing to the international community to answer that call for help, not just as a partner but also as humankind united. It is not only a national crisis that we are facing, but above all a human tragedy whose repercussions extend beyond our borders. What we are experiencing is a test of global solidarity — a test of the values that the United Nations has embodied since its inception. We need the Council to act  — today, not tomorrow. Every day of inaction compounds the distress of families mourning their children, of women living in fear and of young people whose dreams are being drowned out by the sound of gunfire. Haiti cannot overcome the crisis alone. That is why we are calling for greater resources to strengthen our security and resources to enable our institutions to be resurrected and to respond to the legitimate hopes of our people. Beyond practical measures, what we are asking for is a reaffirmation of our common humanity. Haiti, a country whose history is a symbol of courage and resistance, refuses to become a mere tragic charity case. With the Council’s support,

I now give the floor to the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Dominican Republic.

As 2025 begins, I wish all the best of health and prosperity this year. May the important work of the Council be fruitful and of great service to peace. I take this opportunity to acknowledge Denmark, Greece, Pakistan, Panama and Somalia as new members of the Council and to wish them success in their duties. The Government of the Dominican Republic wishes to underscore the significance that the end to hostilities in Gaza and the release of some of the hostages holds for peace. We hope to see the prompt release of the remaining hostages and trust that this first phase will mark the beginning of other stages on the way to a lasting peace. May the culmination of the process reinforce multilateralism. However, very close to home — and with a clear understanding of differences and keeping the proper perspective  — there is another conflict that is far from being resolved. The ongoing humanitarian, institutional and violence crisis in Haiti was recently ranked among the top 10 global conflicts to watch in 2025 by the International Crisis Group, the International Rescue Committee and the Council on Foreign Relations. That reflects the fact that, despite the efforts of the Security Council and the important contributions of several countries from the international community, much remains to be done to achieve the pacification of Haiti. The Dominican Government expresses its gratitude to the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) for its efforts and the quality of its work under such difficult circumstances. In particular, it highlights the role of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Haiti, Ms. María Isabel Salvador. We also thank the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, which has clearly established the close link between the prevailing criminality in Haiti and trafficking in drugs and weapons. We would like to thank the Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Ms. Ghada Waly, for her recognition of the efforts made by the Dominican authorities in combating illicit trafficking in drugs, weapons and ammunition. In 2022, the Security Council created the Committee established pursuant to resolution 2653 (2022) concerning Haiti. Since then, with the support of the Panel of Experts of the Committee, seven individuals have been sanctioned, and the sanctions have been renewed and expanded, pursuant to resolutions 2700 (2023) and 2752 (2024), strengthening their scope. In fact, the Panel of Experts is currently engaged in an intense agenda of work in my country, the Dominican Republic. In 2023, resolution 2699 (2023) authorized the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti, under the supportive leadership of Kenya, which has recently enhanced its mission with new personnel. That force supports the Haitian National Police in its fight against criminal gangs, and its mandate was renewed for one year last September by resolution 2751 (2024). Despite those and other significant efforts made by the Security Council, the reality on the ground shows that the measures have, as yet, been insufficient to overcome this serious crisis. The nature of the Multinational Security Support Mission has hindered the flow of resources and complicated the logistics of the Mission. Despite the leadership of Kenya and the strong support of the United States, Canada, Jamaica, Guatemala, the Bahamas and El Salvador, among others, the impact of the Multinational Security Support Mission has not fully attained its objectives, and the situation in Haiti — as has been explained here today — continues to deteriorate. Proving that no one is safe from the atrocities committed by those terrorist groups, just days later, during the reopening of Haiti’s main public hospital, members of the coalition of criminal gangs known as Viv Ansanm opened fire on journalists, police officers and medical staff, leaving at least three dead. That leads us to strongly condemn the outrageous and unacceptable proposal to include any criminal group as part of the transitional Government in Haiti. We agree with the current President of the Transitional Presidential Council in Haiti, Mr. Leslie Voltaire, that that proposal would be a threat to the Republic of Haiti and, furthermore, we would add, to the region. We must all unite in rejecting the attempt to whitewash organized crime and to involve it in the Haitian Government. That would be an insult to all the victims of those criminals and would undermine the effort of the United Nations to stabilize that country. There is an equally urgent need to stop the illicit flow of weapons and financing to the armed gangs and to impose sanctions against and bring to justice the individuals and entities that support those groups. In that regard, following the information presented by the Sanctions Committee on Haiti, our country arrested and charged police officers and civilians from my country involved in the trafficking of ammunition. We urge all countries that have the ability to prevent the flow of weapons and ammunition into Haiti to redouble their efforts in a decisive manner. If the shipment of powerful weapons into the hands of the gangs is not stopped, the mandate of the Multinational Security Support Mission will be a Sisyphean task. We acknowledge the leadership of the Council in its letter dated 29 November 2024 (S/2024/868), which requests the Secretary-General to provide a comprehensive assessment of the current Haiti context and ongoing United Nations and international efforts. That letter also seeks strategic-level recommendations with a full range of options for the possible role that the United Nations can play in that regard. The Dominican Government hopes that those recommendations will align with the objectives of any United Nations mission, which should include, inter alia, protecting civilians, actively preventing conflicts, reducing violence, strengthening security and training national authorities to take on those responsibilities. We understand that as soon as the Secretary-General’s report is received, the Council must begin the relevant discussions with a view to evaluating the recommendations and implementing those that will constitute a robust and sustainable mechanism, with a clearly defined mandate, aimed at finally restoring stability and peace in Haiti. The time has come for this Organization to assume a more effective and direct role in bringing peace to Haiti by supporting the authorities of that country. The Charter of the United Nations is very clear in assigning to the Council the primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security. That responsibility commits us to persist in carrying out that important role of bringing about peace wherever it is most needed, in a timely manner. That is the fervent aspiration of the Haitian people and of our entire region.

I now give the floor to the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Colombia. Colombia participates in this meeting guided by the fundamental principles of our foreign policy  — solidarity, cooperation and a commitment to peace and regional stability. Our country recognizes and appreciates the historic support of the Republic of Haiti for our independence and the fraternal bond that has united us since the dawn of our history. Today we reaffirm before the Council our support for the Haitian Transitional Presidential Council as a legitimate expression of the will of the Haitian people on its path to stability and development. In recent months we have held several bilateral meetings with His Excellency Mr. Lesly Voltaire, President of the Transitional Presidential Council, the Prime Minister and their teams, at which we have explored concrete avenues of cooperation to contribute to peace and progress in Haiti and throughout the region. I am pleased to share with the Council what I said earlier, that precisely today, while President Petro Urrego is on an official visit to Haiti in the port of Jacmel, a joint Haitian- Colombian work plan is being presented. It includes the signing of five agreements on initiatives in the areas of agriculture, trade, the environment and culture, but also defence and security. My colleague from the Dominican Republic raised the need to control illicit goods transiting through Haiti. Guajira, in Colombia, is the closest point to Haitian Hispaniola in South America, and we must do more to support Haiti on interdiction, the fight against drug trafficking and control over its maritime borders. Much more needs to be done to control the flow of arms. Colombia has initiated talks in that regard and is willing to continue to make a contribution, but free of any hypocrisy and with real resources. That is what the discussion in the Council is about, or should be about. Our joint plan seeks to link efforts in key areas such as social inclusion, combating poverty and institutional strengthening, in complete harmony with the priorities of the Haitian people. On that point, I would like to acknowledge the hard work that the United Nations has done to support the noble cause of the Haitian people. With mistakes and successes, the best will has always prevailed to ensure that the Haitian people regains stability and peace. The work of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti, as well as the Multinational Security Support Mission, approved by the Council, is a significant effort to build a more secure environment for the Haitian people. Three weeks ago, in the city of Riohacha, Guajira, in Colombia, President Gustavo Petro Urrego and His Excellency Mr. Lesly Voltaire reaffirmed our unwavering commitment to support Haiti in the search for sustainable solutions to the crisis it is currently facing. At the same time, we note the progress made in the formation and work of the Transitional Presidential Council, and we encourage its With regard specifically to the request to convert the Multinational Security Support Mission into a peacekeeping operation, Colombia will continue to respect the decisions of the Security Council, as long as they are closely aligned with and respect the sovereignty and will of the Haitian people and its authorities. Colombia reiterates its firm commitment to Haiti, not only out of solidarity but also out of the conviction that the Haitian people deserve real opportunities to build a stable and prosperous future, and not simply the pointing of fingers and the search for culprits. The Haitian nation is not defined by crisis, as is sometimes claimed in the region and in the world, but by its glorious history, its legacy of freedom and its generosity that allowed the freedom of all of South America. Its resilience and its unwavering will to move forward and make progress are known by those of us who have shared experiences with Haiti. Colombia reaffirms its firm commitment to Haiti — President Gustavo Petro Urrego has constantly expressed that. That, and the close ties we have in our shared history, is why Colombia will continue to support processes to find solutions for the long-suffering population of that country. We are confident that the Council will help to build a supportive framework that provides stability, opportunity and hope to a people that has demonstrated its ability to overcome challenges. That is why we have every expectation that the report of the Secretary-General (S/2025/28) reflects the reality of the country. We believe that the stability and well-being of Haiti are fundamental to the peace and development in the whole region. Colombia invites the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean to join efforts for a prosperous and peaceful Haiti.

I now give the floor to the representative of Canada.

I welcome my colleagues who just spoke  — Mr. Jean-Victor Harvel Jean Baptiste, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Worship of Haiti; Mr. Roberto Álvarez Gil, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Dominican Republic; and Mr. Luis Gilberto Murillo Urrutia, who spoke before me. I am sure that my colleagues from Suriname and Kenya will share in these discussions. I welcome my good friend Ms. María Isabel Salvador, with us here, and Ms. Waly. It has been my pleasure and pride to work with both of them. (spoke in English) I am honoured to speak on behalf of the Ad Hoc Advisory Group on Haiti of the Economic and Social Council. The Group comprises 28 member States which are committed to accompanying Haiti’s democratic transition and long-term socioeconomic development. Canada has the great honour of serving as President of the Group. As are all delegations, we are deeply concerned about the serious humanitarian crisis and escalating violence in Haiti, which is inflicting immense suffering on the Haitian population and particularly on children. But we remain, as a Group, very determined to show in practical and real ways our solidarity with the people and with the Government of Haiti. The members of our Group have provided support by sending police officers — in particular we salute Kenya and the many countries in the region that have done so — security experts and humanitarian and financial help. And they are committed to doing more. We encourage the Haitian transitional authorities to put the interests of the country first and work in an inclusive and transparent manner to build multi-stakeholder We believe that supporting Haitian institutions in bringing stability and helping the country to emerge from the crisis must be the utmost priority. The Haitian National Police, with the assistance of the Multinational Security Support Mission, are working hard to re-establish State authority over neighbourhoods dominated by gangs. The situation demands now much more support to secure communities and to make sure that vital transport routes and critical infrastructure are safe and secure and ready to be used for the benefit of all the people of the country. We look forward to seeing from the Secretary-General robust options for the United Nations future role in Haiti. I was glad to be able to speak directly with the Under-Secretary-General on that subject, as well as with those who are working in the field to gather evidence, information and advice from the people of Haiti and from Haitian institutions. We will, as many countries have suggested, consider lessons from the past and focus on the need to strengthen the capacity of Haitian institutions. This must be a Haitian-led operation. We urge the Council to quickly heed Haiti’s request — and I emphasize that it is Haiti’s request — which has come before the Council and which has crossed many political divides in Haiti in reaching its common conclusion. It has taken considerable time to establish that consensus, but the consensus is very strong that we need to transform the Multinational Security Support Mission into a United Nations peacekeeping operation as soon as possible. It is also critical — and many countries have referred to this and it is true and is important to emphasize — that the illicit flow of arms and financial flows to armed gangs must be halted and that individuals and entities who are supporting the gangs and fuelling violence must be sanctioned and brought to justice. We need to translate the Security Council resolutions on this issue, which have been adopted, into action, not only through the efforts of the Council but through the efforts of Member States. At the same time, we must continue to mobilize urgent assistance to meet the critical protection and humanitarian needs of Haiti’s population and scale up investment in sustainable development to lay the ground for a better future right now. We cannot lose sight of the critical need to support displaced persons, restore essential health services, improve local food production, re-open schools and reintegrate children and youth recruited by gangs, create economic and social opportunities and prevent sexual and gender-based violence. And we must do more to support survivors. We must also help Haiti to strengthen judicial and correctional systems, strengthen the participation of women in the country’s transition, create space for dialogue and social cohesion in communities and bolster Haiti’s resilience to the risks that come from natural disasters. Last month, Samarre, a 15-year-old girl living in Port-au-Prince shared her experience with the Economic and Social Council of being trapped in her school with her peers amid violent clashes between armed gangs. Many representatives may have been at that meeting in which she spoke to us. Despite the trauma she has endured, she holds dear her dream of living in a country where children live in safety and peace and look forward to their futures. We must act now to ensure that Samarre, other young people and their families in Haiti can realize that dream. Haiti cannot wait. (spoke in French) I would like to add a few words. On behalf of my country, Canada, I want to say to my colleague from Haiti how much we appreciate the long-standing links between our countries and how committed we are, as a country, to working with the

I now give the floor to the representative of Suriname.

I have the honour to deliver this intervention on behalf of the 14 member States of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). We welcome the presence of the Ministers for Foreign Affairs of Haiti, Colombia and the Dominican Republic and thank the Head of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti and the Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime for their briefings. CARICOM remains deeply concerned about the ongoing multifaceted political, security and humanitarian crisis facing the Republic of Haiti, which continues to deteriorate in spite of efforts at the domestic, regional and international levels. The overarching need remains the re-establishment of security and stability, which is urgent yet elusive owing to a lack of financial and other resources for international security assistance. That has left the Multinational Security Support Mission and the Haitian National Police understaffed, underarmed and underequipped to adequately address the issue of insecurity and violence wrought by the armed criminal gangs in Port-au-Prince and other areas outside of the capital. Haiti remains in urgent need of security, as Haitian nationals continue to live in fear and continuous upheaval owing to the extreme instability caused by the violence, forced displacement of persons and massacres at the hands of criminal gangs. The dire humanitarian situation and widespread suffering fuelled by the violence have left almost 50 per cent of the population subject to food insecurity and caused a tripling of the number of persons displaced in 2024 to more than 1 million and 1,000 schools to be unable to be opened owing to insecurity and the repurposing of schools as emergency shelters. More than 400,000 students were unable to attend school in 2024, and there was a 70 per cent increase in minors recruited by the gangs last year. Noting with satisfaction the recent arrival of security personnel from Guatemala and El Salvador and the deployment of the third contingent of Multinational Security Support Mission personnel from Kenya, CARICOM reiterates its strong support for a transition to a United Nations mission with enhanced international support and sustainable funding. The Community looks forward to the comprehensive assessment to be provided by the Secretary-General and wishes to underscore that a robust and well-supported mission is critical to creating the conditions necessary to restore security, rebuild democratic institutions and facilitate the implementation of initiatives that would address the urgent humanitarian challenges and socioeconomic needs to foment Haiti’s long-term resilience and sustainable development. The transition to a United Nations mission will also be critical to ensure safer conditions for nationals to resume their daily activities without fear and contribute to the holding of and participation in free and fair elections. Those will go a long way to improving national confidence in the State and restoring constitutional order and will help re-invigorate the national economy and improve the overall welfare of citizens. CARICOM continues to assist Haiti through the provision of good offices, through its Eminent Persons Group, among other forms of assistance, and stands ready to continue to provide whatever support is needed to achieve the goals of constitutional reform and the restoration of democratic institutions in Haiti. CARICOM also calls on the international community to be more receptive to the appeals of the Haitian

I now give the floor to the representative of Kenya.

Let me start by congratulating you, Mr. President, and through you, the delegation of Algeria for the exemplary leadership of the Security Council in January 2025. I especially welcome and appreciate the participation of His Excellency Mr. Jean-Baptiste, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Worship of Haiti, as well as the Foreign Ministers of the Dominican Republic and Colombia. I also wish to thank Special Representative María Isabel Salvador and Ms. Ghada Waly for their comprehensive briefings on the important work of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and the situation in Haiti. At the outset, I commend all members of the Security Council for their steadfast commitment to the people of Haiti, reaffirming the international community’s unwavering support for the efforts to tackle the complex and multifaceted challenges confronting this sisterly republic. I applaud the bravery and determination of the Haitian National Police (HNP), supported by the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti to re-establish security, especially in parts of Port-au-Prince. Their joint operations continue to deliver demonstrable positive effects. The achievements of the Mission are proof of concept. Operating at less than 25 per cent of the envisaged strength and capability, its support to the HNP has enabled the retaking of critical infrastructure and assets, the functioning of the Government and the restoration of certain services. Those commendable strides notwithstanding, the situation in Haiti remains complex and challenging. This reality calls for resolute and strategic action and support to Haiti from the international community. Kenya is making every effort to fulfil its commitment of deploying police officers as part of the Multinational Security Support Mission. Last week, on 18 January, we deployed an additional 218 officers, bringing our current total to 600. We remain steadfast in our commitment to reaching the pledged 1,000 officers. In that regard, the next cohort of 400 officers are trained and are mission-ready. Their deployment is dependent upon the availability of necessary resources and logistical support. We also welcome the recent deployment of personnel to Haiti from Guatemala and the planned deployments from El Salvador and the Bahamas. Undoubtedly, that will strengthen the Mission contingent and contribute to the achievement of its mandate. The Multinational Security Support Mission, while a critical and innovative intervention, represents only part of the solution. Moreover, its current limitations in scale and resources underscore the need for broader support. Achieving stability in Haiti requires a comprehensive, multipronged strategy that addresses the root causes of its challenges. Kenya therefore welcomes and strongly supports Haiti’s request to transition the Mission into a United Nations peacekeeping operation. Such a transition would guarantee the necessary resources and support, including enhanced logistics and manpower, and foster greater collaboration by engaging more partners in the stabilization efforts. In that undertaking, we emphasize the need for a carefully coordinated transition in order to avoid any gaps and ensure that the Haitian people are not subjected to further suffering. Furthermore, we hope the mandate will be robust enough and adequately tailored to address the complexities of the operating environment. In its We also wish to underscore that while transition discussions continue, the pressing security situation in Haiti must remain a priority for the Council and the rest of the international community. Presently, the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti and the HNP are the sole active mechanisms addressing these challenges. It is therefore imperative to ensure sustained resources to safeguard the progress made and enable them to effectively fulfil their critical mandate. We thank all stakeholders in this worthy cause, from the personnel contributing countries to every donor — whether bilateral or through the United Nations trust fund. We also thank the Secretary-General for establishing and operationalizing the Multinational Security Support Mission trust fund, which has facilitated support for the various elements of our Mission. Finally, I wish to reaffirm Kenya’s unwavering solidarity with our Haitian brothers and sisters as we continue to offer leadership to the Mission. We shall continue working with the Haitian people, its leadership and its international partners to restore security for the social and economic prosperity of Haiti.