The security situation in Haiti is rapidly deteriorating. Criminal gangs control large parts of the capital, Port-au-Prince, and are expanding their influence into other regions of the country. Gang violence, displacement, human rights abuses, kidnappings and sexual violence are on the rise, undermining peace, stability and security in Haiti and the region. The escalation of violence, which recently culminated in the liberation of thousands of prisoners from various prisons, has had a devastating impact on the civilian population. According to the UN, more than five million people in Haiti are at risk of acute hunger.
Last October, the UN Security Council authorized the deployment of a multinational security assistance mission to Haiti. While Kenya has agreed to lead the police mission, the deployment has been delayed due to internal political processes. In light of the escalating situation in Haiti, the Security Council recently met three times in two weeks to discuss the crisis. Last week, the Council issued a statement calling on relevant actors to take action. It condemned the violence and called on the armed gangs to immediately cease their destabilizing actions. The Council also expressed its expectation that the Security Council mission would be deployed to Haiti as soon as possible. In addition, the Council emphasized the need to create the security conditions for an inclusive political process and free and fair elections in Haiti. Last week, it was announced that a Presidential Council and an interim Prime Minister would replace the resigned Prime Minister Ariel Henry. The UN Security Council met again today for closed consultations. Switzerland is committed to ensuring that the Council continues to support Haiti in its efforts to achieve peace, stability and security. On the ground, Swiss development cooperation continues to support the Haitian people.
