S/PV.9902 Security Council

At the outset of the meeting, I should like, on behalf of the Security Council, to mourn the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. The first Pontiff from the Southern Hemisphere, Pope Francis was a strong voice for peace, human dignity and empathy for the disenfranchised. We offer our deepest condolences to all of those around the world who were inspired by his mission and example. On behalf of the Council, I would ask all present to stand and observe a minute of silence in memory of His Holiness Pope Francis.

In accordance with rule 37 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite the representatives of the Dominican Republic, Haiti and Kenya to participate in this meeting. On behalf of the Council, I welcome His Excellency Mr. Roberto Álvarez Gil, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Dominican Republic. 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. Pascale Solages, co-Founder and General Coordinator of Nègès Mawon. The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda. I give the floor to Ms. Salvador.

I thank you, Mr. President, for welcoming me once again today to address the Security Council at this critical time for Haiti. Since my previous briefing to the Council in January (see S/PV.9844), the security situation in Haiti has deteriorated once again. This time, I want to sound the alarm and make an appeal that can help members to better understand what risks becoming a point of no return in the Haitian crisis. (spoke in English) Since late January, organized criminal groups have launched coordinated attacks to expand territorial control and undermine State authority. They targeted Kenscoff  — the last road out of Port-au-Prince not fully under gang control — and advanced simultaneously into Delmas, downtown Port-au-Prince, and Pétion-Ville — areas previously spared — thereby deepening the city’s destabilization. Attacks also spread across the Ouest, Centre and Artibonite departments, signalling a strategy to stretch national security forces. Most recently, gangs seized Mirmalé. During the attack, more than 500 inmates were freed in the fifth prison break in under a year — part of a deliberate effort to entrench dominance, dismantle institutions and instil fear. The scale and duration of that violence overwhelmed the Haitian National Police, despite support from the armed forces of Haiti and the Multinational Security Support Mission, further obstructing stabilization. In February and March alone, 1,086 people were killed and 383 others were injured. According to the International (spoke in French) The scale of the violence has sown panic among Haitians, who fear the total collapse of the State under pressure from criminal groups. Many of them have come together to protect their neighbourhoods, their families and their communities. In recent days, frustration has driven thousands of citizens to stage protests demanding more effective measures, while certain politicians have exploited the growing insecurity to challenge the current authorities. The national authorities have stepped up efforts, to the extent that their resources allow, to strengthen the security forces and improve the coordination among the police, the armed forces of Haiti and the Multinational Security Support Mission. On 14 April, a revised budget was adopted to support the capacities of the police and the army. It is essential that all future measures strengthen the security institutions in accordance with the rule of law, under civilian authority and in line with the human rights standards. Nevertheless, I must be very frank, responsible and honest: no effort by the Haitian Government will suffice to significantly reduce the intensity and the violence of the criminal groups. (spoke in English) In that context — and this might sound repetitive — stepping up international support for Haiti is more critical than ever, particularly through increased funding and operational capacity for the Multinational Security Support Mission. I commend Kenya’s steadfast leadership and thank all contributing Member States. But at this critical juncture, all Member States must increase support for Haiti’s security forces, particularly for the Multinational Security Support Mission, not as a matter of choice but out of necessity, as no viable alternative remains. The Secretary-General’s letter of 24 February to the Council (S/2025/122) provides proposals, which must be urgently considered. As the security crisis affects all aspects of life in Haiti, the United Nations presence is also coming under strain. The ongoing isolation of the capital due to the suspension of commercial flights since November 2024 and blocked road access remains the greatest operational challenge. In response, the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) and United Nations agencies have adopted hybrid modalities and reduced their presence in Port-au-Prince to maintain operations and deliver life-saving support. However, without sufficient and predictable funding, even a minimal United Nations presence may become unsustainable, jeopardizing our ability to meet mandate priorities. I thank the World Food Programme (WFP) and the United Nations Humanitarian Air Service for ensuring access under extreme constraints and urge continued and scaled-up support to WFP Haiti. Without that critical lifeline, United Nations operations could be further reduced at a time when the country needs us most. (spoke in French) Despite the immense security challenges, the Haitian authorities, with BINUH’s support, have taken measures to move the political process forward. The Transitional Presidential Council, led by Mr. Fritz Jean, has upheld the commitment to holding elections for a transfer of power to elected authorities by February 2026, in accordance with the agreement concluded a year ago. The steering committee of the National Conference has held broad consultations on constitutional revision in the country’s departments and with the diaspora, while the Provisional Electoral Council has launched consultations with the political actors of civil society and made headway in administrative and logistical preparations. The United Nations Development (spoke in English) BINUH remains committed to supporting authorities and stakeholders in engaging constructively on how to realistically advance preparations for elections, while understanding that restoring security and a stable environment is essential to ending the cycle of transitional arrangements and replacing it with democratically elected institutions. In the light of the deteriorating environment and on the basis of the Secretary-General’s message, it is vital to align BINUH’s scope with the realities on the ground. The strategic prioritization of the mandate, grounded in the current security context and the available resources, is essential to allowing the Mission — the political component of the Mission — to deliver meaningfully on core responsibilities, political dialogue, national capacity support, community violence reduction, human rights protection and the creation of conditions for democratic renewal. This is a call for BINUH’s efforts to be focused where they can be the most impactful, sustainable and credible. Amid widespread insecurity, BINUH continues to support governance improvements and political progress. We are working closely with the newly appointed National Commission for Disarmament, Dismantlement and Reintegration. Its installation reflects the determination of the national authorities to advance, despite the challenges. The work on the national strategy for community violence reduction and the draft law on weapons and ammunition are steps towards reducing violence. I welcome the Government’s recent decree to create specialized judicial units to address heinous crimes, financial crimes and corruption and its commitment to prosecuting white collar criminals and financers of criminal groups and to strengthening control over arms and illicit trafficking. The United Nations in Haiti has long supported those efforts through advocacy and technical assistance. I urge the authorities to implement those measures without delay. I also call on the Council to renew its engagement and support for the Sanctions Committee and the Panel of Experts established pursuant to resolution 2653 (2022), including by adding names to the sanctions list and urging Member States to fully enforce the arms embargo. Justice is a system. It requires every party to act for it to function. Haiti’s humanitarian crisis has reached critical levels. Cholera outbreaks and gender-based violence, especially in displacement sites, are widespread. Insecurity has led to the closure of 39 health facilities and more than 900 schools in Port- au-Prince. I urge Member States to support the 2025 humanitarian response plan. The United Nations remains committed to helping deliver life-saving assistance, especially to women, girls and children, and to promoting social peace through Government-led efforts. Haiti has reached a pivotal moment. As I already said, we are approaching a point of no return. As gang violence continues to spread to new areas of the country, Haitians are experiencing growing levels of vulnerability and are increasingly sceptical about the ability of the State to respond to their needs. The national security forces, while deploying the utmost effort, cannot succeed without a unified strategic command structure, free from political interference and operating under civilian authority. In addition, they require more specialized anti-gang units, better equipment and improved working conditions. However, it must be said that without timely, decisive and concrete international assistance, the security situation in Haiti For its part, notwithstanding the enormous security challenges that we face, BINUH, as mandated by the Council, will spare no effort in supporting the Haitian- led political process towards the restoration of peace and democratic institutions as soon as conditions are met.

I thank Ms. Salvador for her very informative briefing. I now give the floor to Ms. Juma.

As I express my gratitude for the invitation to make a statement, I commend you, Mr. President, and through you the delegation of France for the exemplary stewardship of the Security Council during the month of April. I thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Ms. María Isabel Salvador, for her comprehensive briefing on the current situation and on the work of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) in the country. I also acknowledge with gratitude the participation of Ambassador Pierre Ericq Pierre, Permanent Representative of Haiti, in this meeting. I commend all members of the Security Council on their continued support for the Republic of Haiti. That support is a strong affirmation of international solidarity with the people of Haiti as they grapple with multiple, complex, interrelated crises with resilience and determination. The current security situation in Haiti, particularly in the West and Artibonite departments, is dynamic and fluid. Since the most recent briefing (see S/PV.9844), Haiti has witnessed an upsurge in gang violence extending beyond the capital. The gangs, under the Viv Ansanm coalition, are coordinating attacks within and beyond Port-au-Prince, in an effort to overstretch and overwhelm the resources of both the Haitian National Police (HNP) and the Multinational Security Support Mission. Those attacks are threatening the relative gains made since the deployment of the Multinational Security Support Mission nearly a year ago. In spite of that worrisome situation, hope remains. That hope is sustained by the enduring resilience of the Haitian people, who, against many odds, refuse to be held hostage by gangs. It is sustained by the resolute efforts of the political leadership, which seeks to restore State authority and democratic governance. It is sustained by the ongoing work of the Multinational Security Support Mission and the steadfast support of the Council. Kenya is honoured to lead the Mission, and although the deployment today stands at less than 40 per cent of the anticipated 2,500 personnel provided for in the concept of operations, the Multinational Security Support Mission has entered a decisive phase of its operations. As the gangs coordinate their operations, attack populations and strategic installations and threaten the political establishment, the Mission continues to serve as a vital enabler by facilitating humanitarian access, the delivery of some essential services, including education, and the revival of some economic activity in areas that previously were fully under gang control. The Multinational Security Support Mission has also been critical in securing the Administration and Government institutions and, even recently, in helping to forestall an attempt at the hostile takeover of the Administration. Those ongoing security efforts are a basis upon which security and political progress can be built. I also wish to commend the courage and determination of the Haitian National Police and the army in their ongoing efforts to restore security, against many odds. In addition, I recognize the dedication of the Multinational Security Support Mission Despite considerable challenges, the HNP, in collaboration with the Multinational Security Support Mission, have launched intensive anti-gang operations, including last night, and achieved some notable progress, particularly in securing critical infrastructure and denying the gangs a foothold and a stronghold in the country. The progress achieved is a clear demonstration that there is potential for success. The Multinational Security Support Mission has the right mandate; the Mission has the right officers with the right competencies, and the political leadership is keen to restore security. What the Mission needs is to be fully deployed and adequately enabled. An urgent expansion of Multinational Security Support Mission personnel is therefore essential in order to deliver the intended impact and meet the legitimate, high expectations of the Haitian people. In Kenya today, a total of 261 officers who are trained and mission-ready remain on standby for deployment but are unable to get to theatre because of a lack of equipment and logistical support. While I extend heartfelt appreciation to all Member States for their generous contribution of funds, equipment and logistical support, including through the trust fund for Haiti, a significant gap persists; that gap hinders the Mission’s desired effectiveness. The Multinational Security Support Mission is operating at a suboptimal level in terms of the numbers of officers in theatre; in terms of the types and range of assets available to the Mission, including force multipliers; and in terms of logistical support to catalyse enhanced operations and to enable the establishment of critically needed forward operating bases. In that regard, Kenya commends the Security Council for its ongoing efforts to address the challenges facing the Multinational Security Support Mission. Those efforts culminated in the request for a comprehensive assessment of the situation in Haiti and for recommendations with potential options for United Nations involvement. We also acknowledge the report of the Secretary-General submitted in February. Kenya reiterates the undeniable necessity of the Council taking a more assertive and proactive role in Haiti’s stabilization, in accordance with the Council’s mandate of maintaining peace and security. I urge the Council to continue to demonstrate the same unity of purpose in the upcoming deliberations on Haiti, with a steadfast focus on the needs of the Haitian people, who rightfully deserve a secure and stable future. As the lead nation, I deeply appreciate the positive consultations that we continue to hold with members of the Council, and I remain hopeful that a way forward that builds on and consolidates the progress made can be determined expeditiously. Time is of the essence. A critical success factor for this Mission is the curbing of the flow of illegal arms and ammunition, to spoilers in general and to gangs in particular. Webs of transnational criminal networks engaged in trafficking in arms and drugs continue to fuel insecurity and fragility in Haiti. In that regard, Kenya calls for firm and rigorous implementation by all relevant members of the sanctions regime adopted by the Council, in order to curtail the flow of weapons to the gangs. That will not only deny the gangs weapons, but will also reduce the exposure to risk of the Multinational Security Support Mission officers in theatre. I must reiterate that, while the Multinational Security Support Mission is a critical and innovative intervention, it is only part of the solution. Haiti’s stability will be accomplished only through a multi-pronged approach that addresses the root causes of its challenges. The Mission will therefore continue to coordinate and work closely with BINUH, the United Nations country team and the Haitian Government as they align their efforts to improve the security and political situation. Finally, I

I thank Ms. Juma for her briefing and, above all, for Kenya's commitment to peace and security in Haiti. I now give the floor to Ms. Solages.

Haiti is much more than a country in crisis. It is a country at all-out war, with a State that is absent and that does not show any willingness or capacity to deliver appropriate responses to the demands of a population that is being hunted and forsaken. It is a country in which the bodies of millions of women are mutilated, violated and treated as a battleground on a daily basis. Nine feminist and human rights organizations, including Nègès Mawon, the feminist organization that I represent, presented a report on the assistance provided to women and girls who are survivors of violence between January and October 2024. During those 10 months, those nine organizations alone provided support to 3,006 women and girls who survived sexual violence, a majority of them displaced. But the realities of Haitian women amount to more than figures and reports. In those realities, there are lives, names, faces, dreams and stolen destinies. There is Gerda, a young girl aged 16 and living in Cité Soleil, who was held captive and raped by several men over three days. She became pregnant and contracted HIV  — in a country in which abortion is categorically criminalized. She returned to school some months later and has just graduated high school with flying colours. There is Françoise, who was raped by six men in the presence of her three children and her partner, who was then killed right in front of them, in Carrefour-Feuilles. There is Nadine, who, unable to recover from a gang rape, tried to kill herself and miraculously survived, before turning to our organization for help. There are also all those women who have been reduced to eternal silence having been brutally murdered, such as Béatrice Cajou, who was killed by multiple bullet wounds inside the very camp where she had sought refuge. We have seen our rights to security, health, work, justice, housing and education, our right to life, vanish. Haitian women are the first affected by the economic crisis, although they alone are responsible for caring for more than half of Haitian families. The historical inequalities that we are facing in Haiti are therefore now being exacerbated by the immeasurable impacts of the crisis. However, Haitian women are far from being only victims. We are above all active players in the change that we are demanding. We are on the ground, despite the risks and the lack of resources. We are taking up space to say loud and clear what we are experiencing and what we are calling for, just as we refuse to let what we are enduring remain invisible or to be kept silent — agency that is vital if we are to resolve the crisis, defined by the principles of the women and peace and security agenda and established by the Security Council itself and yet absent from most policies, programmes and discourse. Today, given the total lack of respect for the Constitution, which calls for at least 30 per cent of women in decision-making spaces, we are largely underrepresented in the Transitional Presidential Council, the Government and other key forums of power, with a transitional Power that has shown no political will whatsoever to implement a plan, agenda or resources focused on the needs of and challenges facing Haitian women. After roughly a year of the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti, there has been no progress in or change to the lives of Haitian women — on the contrary. That is without forgetting the traumas and violence we experienced with past United Nations missions, in particular the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti. The Multinational Mission must therefore remember that it must operate with full respect for international law, while bearing in mind gender issues. We therefore recommend the full implementation of the women and peace and security agenda measures introduced by resolution 1325 (2000), which reaffirms the effective leadership of women in conflict prevention, management and resolution, so that our specific concerns and issues become a strategic priority in security policies. A feminist approach is crucial in order to focus on women, because inclusion is more than just box sticking — it entails transferring real authority that reflects a commitment to the women’s rights agenda. We must encourage the Government of Haiti to focus on the principles and recommendations proposed in the Policy Framework for an Effective and Equitable Transition drawn up by Haitian civil society and endorsed by more than 180 organizations in Haiti and the rest of the world. The Security Council must call for and impose binding measures to stop the flows of arms and munitions that supply the gangs in Haiti — in particular those coming from the United States — and continue with sanctions against actors linked to armed gangs and implicated in corruption. We must encourage the Government of Haiti to follow the recommendations of civil society organizations, including Nègès Mawon, which have proposed judicial centres so as to prosecute those responsible for financial and sexual crimes and put in place a transitional justice centre to investigate and prosecute those responsible for high-level crimes, while ensuring the inclusion of women survivors as witnesses, actors and beneficiaries of justice and reparation. We must help the Government of Haiti to reinforce Haitian institutions and include specialized units on gender-based violence within the Haitian National Police and the Multinational Security Support Mission. I want to recall that the Haitian people have the prime responsibility to resolve the crisis and decide on the future of our nation. However, much of the support we need depends on the international community, which must support the choices and priorities outlined by the Haitian people, shoulder its responsibility for the crisis and repair the harm done to our nation, such as France’s repayment of its share of the Haitian independence debt. We need a coordinated, multilateral approach that respects Haiti’s sovereignty to re-establish order, reinforce the foundations of democratic governance and ensure lasting stability.

I thank Ms. Solages 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, Ms. Monica Juma and Ms. Pascale Solages for their briefings today. I would also like to express our appreciation for the efforts of the entire United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) team. From the quarterly Secretary-General report and the statements that the Security Council heard just now, it is clear that there are harrowing trends of increased deaths, reports of sexual violence and the recruitment of children into gangs and that Haiti continues to face serious challenges in both security and governance. We extend our condolences to the citizens of Haiti for the lives lost and to the people and the Government of Kenya for the loss of Multinational Security Support Mission police officers. Against that backdrop, we commend the efforts of Special Representative Salvador and her team to implement the BINUH mandate. However, as has been made clear in her report, the security situation is seriously hampering her ability to do so. Gang violence continues to disrupt the critical services that BINUH needs to fulfil its mandate. Currently, BINUH maintains a skeleton team on the ground in Haiti, with all other personnel working remotely. Additionally, BINUH’s medical support There remain deep concerns regarding safety and security in the broader Port- au-Prince area and, increasingly, in areas beyond the capital. The United States supports the statement issued by the Caribbean Community condemning any actions to destabilize Haiti’s governing institutions. We continue to support the ongoing efforts by the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support Mission to assist the Haitian National Police in countering those armed gangs. Corruption remains a major issue. We condemn the actions of those who commit abuses of office, work with the gangs and/or participate in the trafficking of arms and ammunition. An environment that allows such malign activities will only continue to fuel gang violence and ensure that the situation is never resolved. We look forward to the upcoming recommendations of the Panel of Experts established pursuant to resolution 2653 (2022) regarding sanctions targets. The imposition of United Nations assets freezes and travel bans on gang leaders and their facilitators is an important tool at the Security Council’s disposal to promote accountability for those destabilizing Haiti. Supporting anti-corruption efforts and promoting accountability for those responsible for abuses is imperative to facilitating a swift end to violence. Finally, we know that the gravity of the security situation demands that we address the long-term sustainability of the international community’s stabilization efforts — both BINUH and the Multinational Security Support Mission. The United States Government continues to work closely with BINUH, the Haitian Government, the Multinational Security Support Mission, the Organization of American States and the international community to drive progress forward. To that end, we encourage international stakeholders and donors to come to the table and contribute their fair share. While we remain determined to assist the Haitian people to achieve the peace, security and prosperity that they deserve and while we acknowledge with gratitude those countries that have contributed to the Multinational Security Support Mission, financially and in kind, America cannot continue to shoulder such a significant financial burden.

We thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Haiti and Head of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH), Ms. María Isabel Salvador, for her detailed briefing on the situation affecting the brotherly country of Haiti. We acknowledge the presence of the Permanent Representative of Haiti. We also welcome His Excellency Mr. Roberto Álvarez Gil, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Dominican Republic; Ms. Monica Juma, National Security Adviser to the President of Kenya; and Ms. Pascale Solages, co-Founder and General Coordinator of Nègès Mawon, who are honouring us today with their presence. Panama expresses its sincere condolences to the families of the 2,660 victims of intentional homicides during the period covered by the report of the Secretary- General. We also convey our deepest condolences to the families of Samuel Kaetuai and Bénédict Kabiru, members of the police contingent of the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti who lost their lives in the line of duty. We also convey that message to Kenya, recognizing with deep respect their courage and solidarity with the Haitian people in these difficult times. Currently in Haiti more than 1 million people have been internally displaced; more than 5 million people are at high risk of acute food insecurity; 39 per cent of medical facilities remain closed; all means of transportation by water, sky or land Beyond the increase in the incidence of events, we are also unfortunately witnessing an escalation in their brutality: attacks on patients in ambulances, an alarming increase in cases of gender-based sexual violence — including gang rapes against girls and women, as detailed in the most recent report of the Secretary-General — in the more than 1,200 documented cases. For Panama, there is no doubt that a greater United Nations presence on the ground is needed. In that context, we express our support to both the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) and the Multinational Security Support Mission, which we recognize for their efforts and constant work in the face of a growing need for human and financial resources, which are essential to be able to speak about a future of peace, security and progress for the Haitian people. The recommendations set out in the letter dated 24 February 2025 from the Secretary-General addressed to the President of the Security Council (S/2025/122) are a good starting point for moving in that direction and translating commitments into specific actions on the ground — actions that must be tailored to the reality in Haiti and to the region of Latin America and the Caribbean. In particular, we consider it a priority that BINUH include a specialized unit that supports the Haitian authorities in implementing the arms embargo. That effort must go hand in hand with strengthening the national mechanisms and processes to implement and comply with sanctions by all Member States. We also express our deep concern about the growing number of children and adolescents being recruited by gangs. It is urgent that we consider providing BINUH with resources and functions to conduct safe departure, disarmament and reintegration programmes that prioritize those vulnerable populations. At the same time, we consider it appropriate to emphasize that any strengthening of the capacities of the Multinational Mission or of the Haitian National Police must take into account their impact on civilians and that all security measures must avoid at all costs further aggravating the humanitarian crisis. Improving security involves much more than just a presence in the streets; it involves strengthening institutions and clear political will. In that regard, we urge the Transitional Presidential Council to reaffirm its commitment to lead that process responsibly. Almost 220 years ago, Haiti taught the world a lesson by becoming the first country to abolish slavery in its territory. That act of courage and dignity not only marked a milestone in the history of human rights, but also inspired our entire region, including our country, to follow the same path in the struggle for independence from colonial Powers and the vindication of persons of African descent in Latin America and the Caribbean. That spirit of struggle for freedom and justice is still alive in Haitian civil society and in the population as a whole. In that context, we recognize the recent statement by the President of France, Emmanuel Macron, in which he described as unjust the debt imposed on Haiti in 1825. Today we must firmly tell the Haitian people that they are not alone, that we are assessing all possible options to provide solutions to a crisis that must be led by the

We thank Ms. María Isabel Salvador, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Haiti, for her briefing on the situation in Haiti. We are grateful to Ms. Monica Juma, National Security Adviser to the President of Kenya, for her briefing. We listened closely to the statement delivered by the representative of the civil society, Ms. Pascale Solages. We welcome the participation of the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Dominican Republic in our meeting. We are concerned by the continuing deterioration of the situation in the country, especially by the recent events and reports regarding the threat of a coup and ouster of the transitional authorities. In recent months, criminal groups have further entrenched their control over the capital and seized the city of Mirebalais, which has hitherto remained unaffected by violence. We note the role of the Haitian National Police, which is the last remaining bulwark against rampant criminal groups. At the same time, we are alarmed by the harrowing statistics of civilian casualties as a result of skirmishes and the disproportionate use of force by law enforcement. The police have a duty to protect civilians, not to administer justice on the ground at their own discretion. We trust that new tactics employed in the fight against criminal groups, such as the use of drones, will not harm ordinary civilians in Haiti. In that context, we still see no evidence that the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti is playing a role in stabilizing the country. That can be partially explained by the fact that the current numbers of the international contingent are insufficient even to control the situation in the capital, much less to patrol other regions and cities. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of the Mission and understand its needs, the Security Council must be provided with more detailed information. Naturally, briefings such as the one today delivered by the National Security Adviser to the President of Kenya, Monica Juma, enhance the transparency and credibility of the Mission. We have closely studied the Secretary-General’s proposals to scale up the United Nations assistance to Haiti in the area of security. We stand ready to discuss those proposals with our colleagues on the Council. At the same time, it is clear that the establishment of new United Nations structures and mandates will take months, and the country, which is teetering on the brink of disaster, simply does not have that time. We believe that the international community must prioritize the tool that is already at its disposal, namely, the Multinational Mission. The donor States that initiated its establishment and pledged to provide sustainable funding for it have a duty to fulfil their obligations to ensure that the relevant Council mandate is duly implemented. With regard to Security Council sanctions, the imposition of sanctions, as we have all seen, has failed to fundamentally change the situation in the country. The authorities in Port-au-Prince are not apprised of the sanctions regime and have not implemented it. As a result, the sanctions regime is simply not being enforced. The arms embargo, which is nominally in effect, has not prevented criminal groups from replenishing their arsenals, and Washington, despite instructions by the Sanctions Committee, has not undertaken the necessary measures to halt the illegal flow of weapons into the country. We are convinced that sanctions in and of themselves cannot become a decisive factor in countering crime. To that end, it is necessary, first and foremost, to reinforce national law enforcement bodies. The rampant crime in Haiti is no coincidence, but rather a natural consequence of the deterioration of the situation in that long-suffering country, which has not had a democratically elected Government for several years. It is becoming increasingly We support the efforts geared towards organizing general elections and a constitutional referendum, with a view to setting up democratically elected authorities. At the same time, given the complete absence of security and a competent Government capable of safeguarding that security, there are serious doubts regarding the feasibility of holding elections within the specified timeline. We believe that the long-term solution to the crisis is the responsibility of the Haitian people. It is they who need to formulate, without foreign interference, a coherent response to the comprehensive and manifold challenges facing the country. We know that the people of Haiti know how to uphold their national interests and protect the country from intervention. The country’s history confirms that. Recently, we commemorated the bicentennial anniversary of the recognition by Paris of the independence of the Haitian State. That recognition was accompanied by Haiti’s shameful obligation to pay a so-called “ransom for independence”  — the first instance in history when reparations were paid by the oppressed to the oppressor. As a result, for 140 years, the young Haitian State had to pay huge sums to the French colonizers, which for centuries before the independence of Port-au-Prince had literally siphoned off the country’s natural wealth and brazenly exploited the local population. Experts estimate that the economic profit that Haiti forfeited in the payment of that “debt” exceeds $20 billion. Under those circumstances, it is understandable why the Haitian authorities and society are increasingly demanding reparations to compensate for those unjust payments. We fully support the just demands of Haiti, as well as those of other countries of the global South, to hold former colonial Powers accountable for the crimes perpetrated during the colonial era. That shameful page of world history needs be definitively turned.

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, Ms. Juma, and Ms. Solages for their briefings, and welcome the participation of the Permanent Representative of Haiti and His Excellency Mr. Roberto Álvarez Gil, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Dominican Republic, in this meeting. Today’s meeting comes amid alarming reports of a further upsurge in violence and other destabilizing activities by criminal gangs in and around Port-au-Prince. The A3+ condemns the killing of innocent civilians by armed criminal gangs and expresses our unwavering support and solidarity with Haiti. We extend our deepest condolences to the Government and the people of Haiti in the wake of the attacks carried out in Kenscoff and some neighbourhoods of Carrefour, and to the Government and the people of Kenya on the loss of two members of the Kenyan contingent. We reject any attempt to disrupt or replace the transitional governance arrangements by force and violence. We urge the international community to stand firm in supporting a Haitian-led process that prioritizes peace and stability, and the restoration of democratic order in the country. The growing insecurity continues to have devastating consequences for the Haitian people, further compounding the humanitarian, economic and political crises and driving food and nutrition insecurity. Even as we applaud those positive developments, we must acknowledge that the security situation continues to worsen with each passing day. The Security Council therefore cannot resign itself to accepting the status quo. We must act now to bolster international efforts and provide the necessary support to help strengthen security, stability, economic and social reconstruction, as well as the rebuilding of democratic institutions in Haiti. Considering the worsening situation on the ground and the Secretary-General’s letter of 24 February (S/2025/122), with strategic-level recommendations and options for enhanced United Nations support to Haiti, the A3+ wishes to underline the following four urgent appeals. First, progress in Haiti, on any front, including the restoration of democracy, hinges squarely on getting the security situation under control. Having attained only a 40 per cent deployment, the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti is unable to effectively carry out its mandate. The Mission must be fully deployed and adequately resourced to provide the Haitian National Police with the level of support needed to enforce order, increase the flow of humanitarian aid and create the conditions necessary for the planned democratic elections. Indeed, the A3+ is concerned that without any improvement in the security situation, the transitional governance arrangements may be imperilled. The A3+ therefore calls on the Council to move with alacrity in considering the options put forward by the Secretary-General almost two months ago and to provide further security assistance to Haiti. Secondly, the funding requirements for meeting the humanitarian needs in Haiti are expanding, while the humanitarian needs and response plan continues to be largely underfunded. Last year, only 44 per cent of the required funding was received, limiting aid delivery. This year, Haiti’s displacement crisis has reached unprecedented levels, having experienced a threefold increase in just a year. Additionally, displaced people in some parts of the city now face massive flooding, further adding to the burden of economic hardship, insecurity and displacement that they have been forced to endure. Therefore, amid severe funding cuts in the humanitarian sector, the international community must redouble its efforts and strengthen cooperation and solidarity efforts at all levels in support of Haiti. Thirdly, the A3+ reiterates its support for regional efforts, including those of the Eminent Persons Group of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), through which the Heads of State and Government of CARICOM extend the Community’s good offices to the Government of Haiti. The transitional governance process leading to democratic elections, which was facilitated by CARICOM, with Haitian stakeholders, remains critical. We are concerned about the obstacles impeding the political process and underscore the imperative for all Haitian political stakeholders, in particular the Transitional Presidential Council, to remain fully committed to that process, always putting the Haitian people first. Fourthly and finally, the A3+ continues to call for the full and effective implementation of the sanctions regime as another tool for curbing gang violence and the illicit trafficking and diversion of arms and ammunition to Haiti. Without In conclusion, the A3+ will remain fully engaged in the Council’s deliberations on the situation in Haiti and looks forward to timely and constructive engagement with fellow Council members on the Secretary-General’s recommendations.

Let me also thank Special Representative Salvador, National Security Adviser Juma and Ms. Solages for their sobering briefings today. I also welcome His Excellency the Foreign Minister of the Dominican Republic and the Permanent Representative of Haiti to the Chamber this morning. As has been made clear in recent reports and the briefings here today, Haiti is running out of time. Armed gangs continue to expand their arsenals and territory, with more than 85 per cent of Port-au-Prince under their control. The fall of the capital into the hands of gangs is a possibility that we cannot dismiss and cannot allow. Allow me to make three points. First, establishing security must be prioritized. The Haitian National Police continues to face heightened levels of violence, insecurity and crumbling State authority. To that end, Denmark strongly supports the Multinational Security Support Mission, and we are in the final stages of approving a grant for the Mission via the United Nations trust fund. However, in the face of that serious escalation, Denmark strongly believes that there should be greater United Nations involvement in Haiti. We thank the Secretary-General for his recommendations and look forward to working with the Council on the next steps. Denmark also strongly supports the use of targeted sanctions to address gang violence, criminal activities and human rights abuses in Haiti. We call for greater implementation of the arms embargo and for new names to be added to the sanctions list, including through the listing criterion for sexual and gender-based violence. Secondly, we must urgently address the dire human rights and humanitarian situation in Haiti. Between January and March this year, more than 1,500 people were reported killed, with gang members displaying extreme brutality, aimed at instilling fear in the population. As we heard today from Ms. Solages, no one is spared from that violence. Women and girls are exposed to widespread sexual and gender-based violence, with horrific accounts of abductions, rape and executions. According to UNICEF, grave violations against children in 2024 surged twelvefold as compared to the previous year. Such astounding violence demands more than our collective condemnation. There must be accountability for those crimes, and it will require the strengthening of State institutions. The Haitian Government must work to build a cohesive criminal justice system, including by strengthening the police, the judiciary and the corrections system, to end widespread impunity. The Haitian authorities must also implement stronger measures to ensure that their operations comply with international human rights. Meanwhile, Haiti’s humanitarian crisis continues to deteriorate; 5.7 million people are acutely food insecure, with some even in famine-like conditions. Humanitarian and health workers face frequent attacks as gangs target hospitals and control essential roads, disrupting the flow of aid. Denmark reiterates that humanitarian and health workers must never be a target; ensuring their safety and security is crucial for their life-saving work. Thirdly, Haitians deserve progress on the political track. Less than a year remains of the road map for the restoration of democratic institutions. Significant improvements in security must be made before the holding of free, fair and inclusive elections. We strongly urge the Transitional Presidential Council, the Prime Minister and key stakeholders to work together to fight corruption and to prioritize the security and well-being of the Haitian people over personal gain. We condemn any attempt to replace the traditional arrangements by force.

We thank the Special Representative of the Secretary- General, María Isabel Salvador, for her comprehensive briefing, and we take note of her call for urgent action. At the outset, I wish to acknowledge and commend the dedicated efforts of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti, especially in the face of a rapidly deteriorating and increasingly complex environment in Haiti. We also heard Ms. Monica Juma, National Security Adviser to the President of Kenya. Pakistan would like to acknowledge the efforts of the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support Mission in bringing peace and stability to Haiti. We also listened carefully to Ms. Pascale Solages about the dire realities confronting Haiti, particularly its women. I also welcome the participation of the Foreign Minister of the Dominican Republic and the representative of Haiti in today’s briefing. The ongoing turmoil in Haiti is a matter of serious and growing concern. With each passing day, indeed each passing hour, the country appears to sink deeper into instability, chaos and uncertainty — a sad trajectory that began with the assassination of President Moïse. Haiti is grappling with an extraordinary convergence of political, security and humanitarian crises. The worsening security situation, marked by surging gang violence, the absence of a cohesive and effective security strategy, a lack of adequate resources, the unchecked flow of illicit arms and deepening political divisions has left the nation teetering on the brink. We are deeply alarmed by reports that armed gangs have seized control of large parts of Port-au-Prince and are now directly threatening State institutions. The assault on Mirebalais, including the storming of the prison, and the attack on Government helicopters are particularly troubling developments that underscore the scale of the threat. The intensifying protests and the rise of organized vigilante groups, who are openly calling for the overthrow of the entire Administration, are a matter of serious concern. The humanitarian situation itself is equally dire. Nearly half of Haiti’s population is facing acute food insecurity, while the healthcare and education services are all but collapsed. The relentless gang violence has displaced tens of thousands, compounding the already fragile humanitarian landscape. We salute the courage, resilience and commitment of humanitarian actors, who continue to serve under such dangerous and harrowing conditions. The Haitian political leadership must assume its primary responsibility to set the country on a sustainable, clear and inclusive path to political stability. A Haitian- led and Haitian-owned process — one that is broad-based and participatory — is indispensable for achieving lasting peace and security. The restoration of public confidence in the Government is of vital importance. That requires actions and policy measures that are responsive to the needs of the people. We have taken note of the Secretary-General’s letter of 24 February (S/2025/122), which outlines a dual-track strategy and a hybrid model for supporting the Multinational Security Support Mission in countering gang violence and restoring security. That approach depends fundamentally on two pillars, the first being strong national ownership and commitment from Haiti itself and the second being sustained support from the international community, as was also stressed by Special Representative of the Secretary-General Salvador. In that context, the engagement of regional stakeholders, in particular the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), remains of critical importance. We note that the Secretary-General’s proposal has been In conclusion, the people of Haiti deserve peace, stability and a life free from fear. Given the gravity of the situation, time is not on Haiti’s side. The Security Council must act decisively and without delay to operationalize the Secretary-General’s proposals. Further inaction will only exact a heavier toll in lives and exacerbate the chaos. Pakistan remains ready to play a constructive role in fostering agreement within the Council on a path that brings about peace and tranquillity for Haiti and its people.

I wish to begin by thanking Special Representative Salvador for her briefing. We commend the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti on its work; we also commend the continued provision of assistance by the entire United Nations system and team in Haiti amid these challenging circumstances. In addition, I thank Ms. Juma and Ms. Solages for their statements, and I welcome the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Dominican Republic, Mr. Álvarez Gil, and the Permanent Representative of Haiti to today’s meeting. As we heard from the recent reports — and again this morning from the Special Representative of the Secretary-General — the escalating attacks on civilians, which are encroaching upon the few remaining gang-free areas in Port-au-Prince, paint yet another grim picture of Haiti’s sharply deteriorating security situation, prompting Haitians to demand that their capital not fall completely into the hands of criminal gangs. In that respect, we welcome the announcement made earlier this month by the President of the Transitional Presidential Council regarding additional measures and, importantly, resources to restore security in Haiti. Urgent action by the Haitian authorities is needed to protect civilians, restore security and establish the necessary conditions for the restoration of democratic institutions. With regard to further international assistance for those efforts, Slovenia takes note of the Secretary-General’s proposal for the United Nations to provide logistical and operational support to the Multinational Security Support Mission through the establishment of a United Nations support office, to be funded by assessed contributions. While acknowledging the proven feasibility of a hybrid model in certain other situations, particularly in the short to medium term, we would welcome a dedicated discussion on how such a strategy could be applied in the Haitian context, including ways to ensure the full deployment and adequate resourcing of the Multinational Security Support Mission. The unutterable suffering endured by the Haitian people calls for prompt and decisive action on our part, including full respect for and implementation of the Council’s arms embargo. Let me also underline Slovenia’s concern about the deteriorating humanitarian and human rights situation, driven by the gangs’ escalating attacks on populated areas, which have led to record levels of displacement and contributed to the fact that more than half of the Haitian population faces high levels of acute food insecurity. In those dire circumstances, we call for full, safe and unhindered humanitarian access to all those in need. Furthermore, we reiterate our condemnation, in particular, of all forms of sexual and gender-based violence, which target women and girls most often, as a weapon to instil fear in and control communities. We express alarm at the levels of forced recruitment and use of children by gangs, and we call upon the Haitian authorities to prioritize the safety and protection of all children and to support the rehabilitation and social integration of those who have been recruited. We welcome the recent decision by the Haitian authorities to establish specialized judicial units to investigate and prosecute serious crimes, including sexual violence, as a promising step towards the much-needed strengthening of a criminal justice system In conclusion, the Council should do its utmost to help the people of Haiti restore their path towards peace, security and stability.

We thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, National Security Adviser Juma and Ms. Solages for their briefings. We also welcome the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Dominican Republic and the Ambassador of Haiti to the Chamber. The United Kingdom is extremely concerned by the significant escalation of violence in Haiti. More than 2,600 Haitians have been murdered over the past three months, including nearly 400 women and children. We continue to hear horrifying accounts of sexual and gender-based violence targeting women, girls and boys. One third of cases of sexual violence against children in Haiti in 2024 were gang rapes. Through coordinated attacks on civilian communities, including the deliberate destruction of schools, churches and businesses, gangs continue to target the innocent and inflict horror on the people of Haiti. There are troubling reports of coordination between criminal gangs in order to destabilize Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council as it tries to ensure security across the country. We firmly reject all acts designed to destabilize Haiti. The United Kingdom is committed to maintaining pressure through the implementation of sanctions on those who seek to destabilize Haiti, and we call for the full implementation of the United Nations sanctions regime and the arms embargo in Haiti. The United Kingdom supports the efforts of Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council, Prime Minister Fils-Aimé and all stakeholders to work towards a secure and stable Haiti. But now is the time for even greater action to restore security and to allow for elections in order to enable a transfer of power to an elected successor in February 2026. That includes an urgent need for the Haitian National Police, supported by the Multinational Security Support Mission, to re-establish control over all areas of Port-au-Prince. The United Kingdom thanks Kenya for its continued leadership of the Multinational Security Support Mission and pays tribute to those, both Kenyan and Haitian, who have lost their lives in the pursuit of restoring security for the Haitian people. In the light of the deteriorating security situation, it is clear that the Multinational Security Support Mission and Haitian security forces need to be adequately supported to fulfil their mission. The Council needs urgently to consider the recommendations of the Secretary-General and to agree on how we can support enhanced United Nations security support for Haiti. Collectively, we must find a way to deliver stability and lasting peace for the people of Haiti.

I would like to thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General María Isabel Salvador, Ms. Juma and Ms. Solages for their briefings. I would also like to welcome His Excellency the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Dominican Republic and the Permanent Representative of Haiti to this meeting. Greece is deeply concerned by the precarious security situation in Haiti and the increasing gang violence, which exacerbates the dire humanitarian situation and aims to destabilize the Government. We condemn any attempts by gangs to change the political status quo in the country; we also condemn the human rights violations they commit. Against that backdrop, allow me to make three points. Secondly, to tackle gang violence, it is imperative to control criminal activity in Haiti, such as illicit arms and drug trafficking. Strict border and port controls are essential, as is the thorough implementation of the arms embargo and the sanctions regime. We remain ready to consider additional measures in that regard. Thirdly, Greece supports an inclusive and sustainable Haitian-led political transition, aimed at restoring the rule of law and stability in the country. We commend the progress made in the preparations for completing the transfer of power by February 2026 in an inclusive manner, with the active participation of women and youth. We appreciate the inclusion of women in the consultations on the production of a draft constitutional text and the appointment of 30 per cent women as members of the electoral offices. We reiterate the need for free, fair, participatory, peaceful and inclusive elections, and we urge the Haitian authorities to promote good governance and accountability and to prioritize the fight against corruption. In view of that, we read with interest the Secretary-General’s proposal to provide the Multinational Security Support Mission with United Nations logistical and operational support, taking into consideration the positive reaction of the Haitian authorities and the region — in particular the Caribbean Community — and we stand ready to work constructively on that matter with our fellow Security Council members. In conclusion, I would like to express Greece’s gratitude to the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti and the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for their engagement with all national stakeholders. For our part, we stand ready to support a Haitian-led political solution that responds to security and socioeconomic challenges and addresses the root causes of the country’s instability.

I thank Special Representative Salvador and National Security Adviser Juma for their briefings. I welcome the representative of Haiti and the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Dominican Republic to today’s meeting. I also listened carefully to the statement made by the civil society representative. First, Haiti must shoulder its own responsibility. As a sovereign nation, it bears primary responsibility for governance. However, amid the ongoing political deadlock, coupled with persistent division among parties and factions, there is little hope of holding a general election as scheduled. We urge all parties in Haiti to prioritize the interests of the nation and its people, enhance dialogue and consultation and demonstrate flexibility. It is crucial to work together to advance a truly Haitian- led and Haitian-owned political process, with the goal of establishing a legitimate, effective and responsible Government without delay. We urge the Haitian authorities to move away from the mindset of waiting around, relying on others and asking for help. Instead, they must fulfil their duties with diligence, show true accountability and prioritize the allocation of limited resources to the security and well-being of the people, addressing urgent challenges and steadily strengthening crisis response capabilities and resilience. That is the cornerstone of Haiti’s ability to navigate multiple crises effectively and a necessary foundation if any external support is to have an impact. Secondly, external support must be practical. The United Nations has been engaged in Haiti for three decades, deploying multiple peacekeeping operations and political missions. However, the outcomes have often fallen short relative to the scale of the efforts. It is essential to learn from experience, address the root cause of the crisis and deliver assistance that is more targeted and practical. Regarding the political process, we must support the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) in continuing their good offices to expedite the implementation of a transitional arrangement that is aligned with Haiti’s realities and widely recognized. In terms of security governance, it is important to encourage donors, countries of the region and regional organizations, among others, to deepen their cooperation with the Haitian authorities. The role of the Multinational Security Support Mission should be strengthened to ensure the effective implementation of the Security Council’s arms embargo and curb the spread of illegal weapons and ammunition. Regarding humanitarian assistance, it is necessary to mobilize the international community’s resources and to mobilize all parties to continue to provide more assistance to the Haitian people to alleviate their suffering. Thirdly, the instigator must be held accountable. Haiti was the first Latin American country to declare independence. However, it has suffered a long period of military occupation, external interference and economic exploitation. Throughout that process, the United States has been the greatest external factor affecting Haiti’s security, stability and development. The United States has always been the mastermind behind the political situation in Haiti. For more than a century, it has repeatedly intervened, blatantly deploying troops, installing puppet Governments, manipulating Haiti’s Constitution and entrenching itself in Haiti’s political affairs. Just a year ago, the United States orchestrated the current political transition arrangements in Haiti. Yet, now, following a change in its own Government, it has turned a blind eye to that very transition, leaving Haiti mired in internal conflict and turmoil. The United States has been the main source of weapons for Haiti. The reports of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and the Panel of Experts of the Committee established pursuant to resolution 2653 (2022) have repeatedly pointed out that fact. Although the United States agreed to the Security Council’s imposition of a territorial arms embargo on Haiti, it has always been perfunctory in its implementation, allowing illegal weapons to flow into Haiti from Florida. As a result, Haitian gangs are even better equipped than the Haitian National Police. The United States has been a major source of interference in Haiti’s development. While it claims to support the Haitian people, it has significantly cut foreign aid and continued deporting Haitian immigrants on the pretext of national priorities precisely when Haiti is in dire need of support. What is even more shocking is that, not long ago, while the United States defied world opinion by imposing sweeping tariffs on all trade partners, it also extended its so-called baseline tariff of 10 per cent to Haiti  — one of the world’s least developed countries, as defined by the United Nations. That display of unilateralism, protectionism and economic bullying is not just aimed at so-called competitors, such as China  — it is also inflicted on nations teetering on the edge of collapse, including fragile countries such as Haiti, where people are in dire straits. The suffering it causes is not only cruel and absurd, but it is also profoundly heartbreaking. We hope that the United States will reflect on all of that. Haiti’s future and its destiny should not be sacrificed as part of the pursuit on the part of the United States of its own strategic interests, nor should being too close to the United States become a curse for Haiti. Lastly, China expresses its deep sympathy for the Haitian people in their time of hardship. We commend the efforts of BINUH and other multilateral organizations dedicated to supporting Haiti, and we welcome the constructive engagement of CARICOM and other countries of the region. We recognize the work of the Multinational Security Support Mission led by Kenya. The international community should maintain its support in order to help Haiti to strengthen its institutions, enhance its capacity and advance towards the path of independence, self-reliance and development. During that process, China stands ready to join all parties to continue to play a constructive role in that collective effort.

I thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Haiti, Ms. Salvador, and the National Security Adviser to the President of the Republic of Kenya, Ms. Juma, for their comprehensive briefings, and Ms. Pascale Solages for her sobering testimony. I also welcome the presence of the representative of Haiti and the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Dominican Republic. It is regrettable that we must convene under these worsening circumstances, as underscored by today’s briefers. Since the Council most recently addressed this issue in January (see S/PV.9844), the situation in Haiti has not improved. In fact, it has grown increasingly dire. As the Secretary-General noted in his report, fears are now mounting over the imminent collapse of the State’s presence in the capital. That alarming development calls for heightened vigilance and a stronger sense of urgency on the part of the international community. In that regard, I would like to highlight three points. First, improving security is the foundational requirement upon which all other progress depends. It must be the top priority for all Haitian stakeholders, including the Haitian authorities. There is no time to waste on political infighting. While the Multinational Security Support Mission may not be a perfect solution, it remains one of the most viable avenues for immediate impact. Rather than revisiting whether Secondly, it is time for the Council to begin discussions on the dual-track approach proposed by the Secretary-General in his February letter (S/2025/122). That proposal offers a strategic framework to guide our efforts moving forward. The proposed United Nations support office and the expansion of the mandate of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) may carry significant budgetary implications, particularly regarding assessed peacekeeping contributions. Given their presence on the ground, BINUH and the United Nations country team would naturally be involved in preparations for the support office. The establishment of a standing group of partners to the Mission would also require thorough preparations, including considering which countries or regional organizations might voluntarily take on a leading role. Those complexities underscore the need for the Council to begin deliberating on those options without delay. Thirdly, I would like to emphasize the severe and disproportionate impact of the crisis on women and girls — an issue that demands a distinct sense of urgency. In that regard, Ms. Solages’ testimony today is truly shocking. Armed gangs continue to weaponize sexual violence as a means to terrorize, control and intimidate communities. Women and girls, especially those residing in sites for internally displaced persons, remain acutely vulnerable. We unequivocally condemn those atrocities and call for an immediate end to gang violence targeting women and girls, including women human rights defenders, civil society leaders and humanitarian workers. Protecting the rights of women and girls requires more than simple condemnation. I would like to reiterate the importance of ensuring their full, equal, safe and meaningful participation in all political processes, including the implementation of the minimum 30 per cent quota for women’s representation outlined in Haiti’s Constitution. This is an emergency. Breaking the vicious cycle of insecurity, political stagnation and humanitarian crisis in Haiti demands urgent and coordinated action. The Haitian people are determined. With robust international support, I believe that the country can return to the path of peace and sustainable development.

I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the representative of France. I would like to thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Haiti, Ms. María Isabel Salvador, for her briefing. I also thank Ms. Pascale Solages, who reminded us of the terrible plight of Haitian women, the primary victims of the cruel violence of armed gangs. I thank Ms. Monica Juma for her message of hope and courageous extension of the Kenyan personnel in the service of Haiti. I welcome the presence among us of the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Dominican Republic, Mr. Roberto Álvarez Gil. Port-au-Prince, beset on all sides by the violence of criminal gangs, is sliding into the abyss, in the words of the Secretary-General. We must do everything we can to prevent that and to restore security. Without security, no progress can be made in the political transition process. The re-establishment of democratic institutions and the rule of law in Haiti are necessary steps to put an end to the multidimensional crisis that has plagued the country for too long. The massive violations of human rights and international humanitarian law suffered by the Haitian people must The Haitian National Police, whose resources must be reinforced by the State, continues to fight courageously to protect State institutions, with the help of the Multinational Security Support Mission. In that respect, France welcomes the commitment of the troop-contributing countries and in particular Kenya, to whom it conveys its sincere condolences for the loss of two of its police officers. France will continue to support the Multinational Mission, to which it has already contributed $10 million. The Mission must be better equipped, in terms of troops and equipment, to help slow the expansion of gangs, which are spreading to other departments, and to recover the territories they control. We must redouble our efforts to provide Haiti with the support it so urgently needs. France stands with the Haitian people. It is doing so by providing humanitarian aid to combat food insecurity and assist displaced persons. In 2024, that aid amounted to €16.5 million out of a total of €40 million donated by France to Haiti last year. France shares a common history with Haiti, marked by tragedy. That history calls for a work of remembrance, to which the President of the Republic committed himself by announcing on 17 April the establishment of a joint Franco-Haitian commission, which will examine our common past. Beyond that, France is calling for greater involvement of the United Nations. I would like to remind those who would be tempted to lose hope in our ability to act together that we are talking not only about an unprecedented security and humanitarian crisis for the Haitian people but also about a situation which is a threat to international peace and security and the region and its neighbours. We are convinced that the United Nations can provide strategic and operational expertise, as well as essential logistical support. With that in mind, in October 2024 we called for a response to Haiti’s request for a transition from the Multinational Security Support Mission. We have taken note of the recommendation made by the Secretary-General in February 2025 (S/2025/122), indicating that a transition to a peacekeeping operation could take place in a second phase, after having reduced the gangs’ territorial control. We must now move forward with that plan. France is ready to work with all member States of the Council to find a solution acceptable to all in the short term that will enable us to strengthen international support for security in Haiti. In addition to the Multinational Mission, the Council must use all the levers at its disposal to support national efforts to combat gangs and the transnational organized crime networks that feed them. That means fully implementing the arms embargo and individual sanctions, as well as applying those sanctions to those who support the gangs. The United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti, to which France reiterates its support, also has a role to play in supporting the action of the Haitian authorities in that area. It must be given the necessary resources to fulfil its mandate. I now resume my functions as President of the Council. I give the floor to the representative of Haiti.

I thank you, Mr. President, for giving me the opportunity to address the Council at this crucial time for Haiti. Allow me, at the outset, to convey the regrets of His Excellency Mr. Jean-Victor Harvel Jean-Baptiste, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Haiti, that he was unable to participate in today’s meeting. I extend my warmest congratulations to the delegation I would like to express our gratitude to the Secretary-General for the presentation of his updated report on the situation in Haiti, as well as for his letter dated 24 February 2025 (S/2025/122), containing important strategic recommendations aimed at strengthening United Nations support for the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti, led by Kenya. Yesterday I was able to participate in a conference between President Fritz Alphonse Jean and Ms. Juma, both of whom pledged their country’s continued assistance to the Mission. I would also like to thank Ms. María Isabel Salvador, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Haiti, for her excellent briefing. During her courtesy visit to the Mission last week, we had the opportunity to commend her on her commitment to the country. I also welcome the excellent briefing delivered by Ms. Pascal Solages and commend the remarkable work carried out by her organization in Haiti, Nègès Mawon. I also welcome the presence of the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Dominican Republic. I will not reiterate here the figures in the report cited by Ms. Salvador and the majority of speakers. I would simply like to highlight certain examples of progress that has been achieved. For example, sustained efforts are being made to reform the Haitian National Police. On 31 March 2025, on the occasion of the solemn reopening of the Port-au-Prince Court of First Instance, the Government announced a historic investment of 31 billion gourdes towards the Haitian National Police (HNP), including more than 7 billion for the acquisition of strategic equipment and 4.4 billion for the modernization of the armed forces of Haiti under the amended budget. On the judicial front, initiatives have been launched to combat impunity, and efforts are under way to relaunch the judicial system and to restore confidence in public institutions. To that end, two specialized branches have been set up: one for mass crimes and sexual violence, the other for financial crime. Those branches are part of the disarmament, demobilization and reintegration component of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti. The Government has also stepped up its humanitarian aid, notably by distributing tarps and hot meals for persons displaced by bad weather. Those actions demonstrate the will to restore the authority of the State, protect its citizens, guarantee access to justice and rebuild the foundations of governance. The Government has been actively collaborating with international partners to ensure the effective coordination of humanitarian aid and to strengthen accountability mechanisms. These steps reflect a genuine will to re-establish the authority of the State, protect its people and create conditions conducive to sustainable and inclusive development. Despite the efforts made by the Haitian authorities and the international community, it must be said — as highlighted by the Special Representative — that the results are still fall far short of the objectives set. In that respect, we appreciate the Secretary-General’s proposal contained in his letter of 24 February 2025. The proposal deserves particular attention from the Security Council. It is in line with the requests made by the Transitional Presidential Council, and could offer a more structured and effective framework for coordinating international aid. It is essential that this initiative be taken further so as to enable the international community to provide a more robust, coherent and sustainable response to the current challenges. We need to explore all avenues to help eradicate the problem of armed gangs in Haiti. The Republic of Haiti is dying by a thousand cuts through the combined actions of armed gangs, drug traffickers and weapons traffickers. As the saying I cannot conclude without noting that the French President has kept the promise he made to President Leslie Voltaire during his visit to Paris. His 17 April statement on the relationship between France and Haiti opens the way for dialogue and mutual understanding that will enable us to reach a solution that is fair to Haiti and acceptable to France, in a spirit of reparation without revenge, cooperation without humiliation and recognition without confrontation.

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

We commend France for its fruitful efforts in presiding over the Council. We also welcome the French presidency’s priorities, specifically its commitment to affording particular attention to the situation in Haiti. I reaffirm the support of the Dominican Government for Minister Jean-Noël Barrot’s goals of a shared commitment to an effective multilateral system that adheres to the principles of the Charter of the United Nations and international law and that gives precedence to dialogue and the quest for peace through concord, solidarity and cooperation. Likewise, we appreciate France’s recent acknowledgement, personally conveyed by President Emmanuel Macron, as the representative of Haiti underscored, of the devastating impact of the requirement for Haiti to pay compensation as a condition for the recognition of its independence. That historic acknowledgement represents a fundamental stride towards restorative justice and restoring international ties with Haiti on the basis of mutual respect and shared responsibility. Today I stand before the Security Council the fifteenth time in the space of four and a half years. The sole purpose of each of my appearances has been to urge the Council to take the appropriate measures in the face of the profound humanitarian and institutional crisis and the violence that is afflicting the Haitian people. The human tragedy being endured on a daily basis in Haiti has been identified as one of the main conflicts in the world to monitor in 2025. As the brutality of the criminal gang members tightens its relentless grip, we cannot remain indifferent. Sexual violence against women and girls, as depicted in graphic terms today by Ms. Solages, has attained horrifying levels, with 378 cases of rape recorded in just four months, representing not a mere statistic but lives shattered beyond repair. In displaced persons camps, women and girls — the most vulnerable — live in terror and are left entirely defenceless in the face of sexual assault. With every passing day, the lack of a concrete response claims more victims. The international community must now respond with unswerving resolve to this devastating humanitarian emergency. As the only country to share a land border with Haiti, the situation in the country has become a serious threat to the national security of the Dominican Republic. Our Government recently decided to designate the Haitian criminal groups, which are organizing and timing their criminal operations with increasing efficiency by the day, as terrorist groups. Eleven days ago, two such criminal gangs overran the Haitian community of Mirebalais, as was also pointed out today, and occupied the premises of the Dominican Consulate in the town. Fortunately, the personnel guarding the We are grateful for the report of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (S/2025/28) and we commend the Mission and the commitment, efforts and personal sacrifice made by the Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary- General for Haiti, María Isabel Salvador. We also express our thanks for the significant input that the reports of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime provide. Both agencies clearly establish the close connection between criminality in Haiti and arms and drug trafficking. If arms and ammunition trafficking is not brought under effective control, it will be impossible to make headway in the fight against criminal organizations, which, at present, appear to be better organized, coordinated and armed than the Haitian National Police and the Multinational Security Support Mission. I take this opportunity to again thank the Government of Kenya for its decision to spearhead the Multinational Security Support Mission and to supply the Mission’s first troops. And I thank the other Caribbean Community and regional countries for participating in the Mission. In a similar vein, we underscore the tireless efforts of the Haitian National Police and take this opportunity to express our regret at the deaths of a number of Haitian police officers who perished yesterday in the line of duty, as well as the two Kenyan officers who previously died. Through them we extend our solidarity to all Haitian people who have endured the terror unleashed by those criminal organizations. For its part, the Dominican Republic is continuing to tighten controls at the various ports, at great cost to the Dominican Government. Customs authorities recently seized a shipment consisting of 36,000 ammunition rounds of various calibres and an assortment of firearms from the United States, destined for Haiti. Smuggling has been boosted by criminal organizations’ control of some private ports in the capital of Port-au-Prince through which they receive their lethal cargoes. They have also engaged in piracy, attacking ships on the high seas to step up extortion and trafficking in arms and ammunition, including the abduction of sailors. That represents a chilling degree of coordination, presupposing strong ties and complicity with transnational criminal actors. It is imperative to implement, once and for all, the sanctions against the individuals and institutions that finance and shield organized crime in Haiti, to step up controls, to strengthen the arms and ammunition embargo and to devise an effective strategy against organized crime. It is inconceivable that only five criminals have thus far been sentenced, with the individual and institutional facilitators unidentified. It is urgent to strengthen political will from within the United Nations and on the part of countries, so as not to continue to disappoint Haitian society and to stop the mockery made of it by organized crime. The Dominican Republic welcomes, and expresses its sincere appreciation for, the proposal made by the Secretary-General and his team, set out in his letter of 24 February 2025 addressed to the President of the Council (S/2025/122). We express our strong support for the dual-track strategy proposed by the Secretary-General, If the current state of lethargy persists and we fail to intervene with the forcefulness needed to nip this protracted crisis in the bud, we run the serious risk of watching it turn into an international conflict of unpredictable proportions. As the International Crisis Group has rightly pointed out with regard to lessons learned in conflict resolution, the most effective strategy is to address conflicts before they escalate, not to wait until they are completely out of control and then to work desperately in pursuit of peace. The Dominican Republic notes with deep concern the conspicuous and growing insufficiency of funds, as pointed out here today, to address the priorities identified. We must recognize that the urgent and primary objective is to restore security in Haiti. Without a secure environment, all other efforts will be fruitless, including humanitarian assistance and sustainable development initiatives aimed at addressing the structural causes of the country’s persistent problems. The absence of concrete answers that can give hope to a population that has endured for so long has seriously undermined governmental stability and legitimacy. Are we waiting for the governing body to be displaced by uncontrollable movements that force us to negotiate with criminal groups? At this critical juncture, now is the time for coordinated action and shared responsibility. The Dominican Republic reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the restoration of peace, democracy, the rule of law and sustainable development in Haiti and once again urges the Council to act with the urgency that the situation demands.

There are no more names inscribed on the list of speakers. I now invite Council members to informal consultations to continue our discussion of the subject.