The U.N. Security Council has unanimously approved a resolution condemning “in the strongest terms” the increasing gang violence and criminal activity in Haiti. The council expressed concern over the illegal flow of arms and ammunition into the country, which is linked to the expanding territorial control by gangs and the extreme levels of armed violence, including sexual and gender-based violence, undermining peace, stability, and security in Haiti and the region.
Friday’s resolution extends the U.N. political mission in Haiti, known as BINUH, until July 15, 2025. The mission’s mandate is to support the advancement of “a Haitian-led, Haitian-owned political process towards the holding of free and fair legislative and presidential elections.”
The resolution, sponsored by the United States and Ecuador, reiterates support for a Kenyan-led multinational security force to assist the Haitian National Police in re-establishing security. An initial contingent of 200 Kenyan police arrived in the capital, Port-au-Prince, on June 25.
Haiti has been grappling with increasing gang violence since the July 7, 2021, assassination of President Jovenel Moïse. The gangs now control up to 80% of the capital, leading to a surge in killings, rapes, and kidnappings. This has prompted a violent uprising by civilian vigilante groups.
The Security Council welcomed the establishment of a transitional government led by Prime Minister Garry Conille, a former U.N. development specialist, who arrived in the country in early June. Conille stated that the Kenyan police will be crucial in controlling the country’s gangs and moving toward democratic elections.
U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield emphasized BINUH’s key role in supporting Haiti’s democratic transition. She expressed optimism about the Kenyan-led police mission and Haiti’s political outlook but acknowledged that much more needs to be done.
Kenya has pledged 1,000 police officers, with efforts underway to deploy more. Benin has also announced preparations to send about 2,000 police officers to participate in the force.
Ecuador’s U.N. Ambassador José de la Gasca highlighted the importance of regional solidarity in helping Haiti overcome its challenges. He noted that the unanimous adoption of the resolution is crucial for supporting Haiti’s democratic transition and restoring security.
Haiti’s U.N. Ambassador Antonio Rodrigue praised the resolution as a robust show of international support for Haiti’s efforts to restore democratic institutions and progress in the political transition. He stressed that while the extension of BINUH’s mandate is a positive step, much work remains. Rodrigue expressed hope that the arrival of the Kenyan contingents would bring an end to the suffering and violence faced by Haitians.
Rodrigue also reiterated calls for continued international support for the Haitian National Police and the international police mission.
