U.N. Security Council Extends Kenya-Led Mission Addressing Gang Violence in Haiti

The U.N. Security Council has unanimously extended the mandate of a Kenya-led mission to combat gang violence in Haiti until October 2, 2025. This mission, currently consisting of around 400 officers, aims to assist local authorities in restoring security following a dramatic rise in violence since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021. While the extension reflects international support, challenges such as insufficient troop numbers and financial constraints continue to pose difficulties for achieving long-term stability in the region.

On Monday, the United Nations (U.N.) Security Council unanimously voted to extend the mandate of a Kenya-led mission aimed at addressing the escalating gang violence in Haiti. This resurgence of gang activity has significantly increased following the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moïse in 2021, resulting in paramilitary groups exerting control over approximately 80 percent of the capital, Port-au-Prince. In reaction to this alarming rise in violence, local vigilante groups have begun to emerge as residents seek to reclaim control over their communities. The Multinational Security Support Mission, initiated at Haiti’s request, is designed to assist the Haitian National Police in combating gang violence, restoring security, and laying the groundwork for democratic elections. This mission is granted temporary executive policing authority, which includes powers of arrest and detention. The resolution passed on Monday successfully extends this mission until October 2, 2025, urging for an accelerated deployment and encouraging further voluntary contributions and support. During the session, U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield articulated the significance of the unanimous 15-0 vote, stating it “sends a strong message to the people of Haiti: The world is standing with you. And we are unwavering in our efforts to help restore security and stability and put the country on the path to peace and stability.” Despite the extension, the decision bypasses a request from Haiti’s leadership for a transition into a formal U.N. peacekeeping mission. Notably, China and Russia succeeded in removing a clause from the resolution that acknowledged Haitian transitional council president Edgard Leblanc Fils’ call for discussions regarding a potential U.N. peacekeeping force, raised during the recent U.N. General Assembly. The Kenya-led mission is currently comprised of approximately 400 officers, substantially fewer than the 2,500 personnel initially pledged by other nations including Chad, Benin, Bangladesh, and Barbados. Funding resources are also limited, raising concerns about the mission’s sustainable operation in the long term. Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield addressed these financial challenges, emphasizing the urgent need for additional contributions to support the multinational force and urging council members to consider Haiti’s request for a U.N.-funded peacekeeping endeavor. China and Russia, however, opposed the idea of deploying a peacekeeping force at this time, highlighting the adverse outcomes of previous U.N. missions in Haiti. China’s deputy U.N. ambassador, Geng Shuang, stated, “The U.N. has sent multiple peacekeeping operations in Haiti, but the results have never been satisfactory, and the lessons learned have been extremely profound. Haiti does not have the conditions for the deployment of peacekeeping operations right now.” In his speech to the General Assembly, President Leblanc recognized the efforts of the current multinational force while stressing the substantial work that remains in restoring peace, as many Haitians continue to live under the constant threat of violence.

Haiti has faced increasing instability and violence in recent years, particularly following the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse. This incident catalyzed a surge in gang activities, with paramilitary organizations dominating significant areas of Port-au-Prince. In response to the rising chaos and demands for security, local vigilante groups have emerged, while international responses have focused on supporting the Haitian National Police through missions like the Kenya-led initiative. This mission is intended to not only restore order but also prepare for future democratic processes, emphasizing the need for effective governance and humanitarian support in Haiti.

The U.N. Security Council’s decision to extend the Kenya-led mission signifies continued international support for Haiti amid rising gang violence and instability. While the mission seeks to bolster the Haitian National Police and assist in restoring security, significant challenges remain, including inadequate troop numbers, limited financial resources, and pushback against transitioning to a formal U.N. peacekeeping force. The ongoing crisis underlines the complexities of establishing lasting peace and stability in Haiti.

Original Source: www.newsweek.com