Guterres calls for the deployment of an international force in Haiti

This Saturday, the General secretary arrived in Haiti on an official visit to offer solidarity to the Haitian people, who are facing a terrible cycle of mutually reinforcing political, humanitarian and security crises.

The country’s capital, Port-au-Prince, is surrounded by armed gangs that block the main roads leading to the northern and southern regions, and control access to water, food, health care and other services. The violence these groups affect all aspects of the public and private life of citizens.

“I am deeply concerned about the extreme vulnerability of individuals and communities to these predatory gangs, and in particular about the disproportionate impact of violence on women and girls,” Guterres said.

In this sense, the head of the UN condemned the widespread sexual violence that armed gangs have used as a weapon to instill fear.

international force

The Secretary General requested the urgent and sustained care and the adoption of an approach that addresses not only political and security challenges, but also the rule of law and humanitarian and development issues.

“I reiterate my call to all partners to to increase their support for the National Policebe it in the form of financing, training or equipment”.

In addition, he once again urged the Security Council to which he authorizes immediate deployment of an international force to assist the Haitian National Police in their fight against gangs.

A viable and credible electoral route

For the head of the UN it is essential return the country to democratic order as soon as possible and called on all parties involved to facilitate the restoration of the institutions.

“Everyone must overcome personal interests and make concessions to pave the way for the emergence of a common vision and a viable and credible electoral path,” he declared.

Likewise, Guterres met with the Prime Minister, the High Transition Council, civil society and political parties to discuss the need for an inclusive national dialogue, with the full participation of women and youth, to end insecurity and find lasting political solutions.

720 million humanitarian aid needed

The Secretary General pointed out that in the humanitarian field, the needs continue to increase and international support is insufficient. One in two people in Haiti lives in extreme poverty, suffers from hunger and does not have regular access to clean drinking water.

“Our humanitarian response plan, which requires $720 million to help more than three million people, is only 23% funded. I appeal to the international community to help. It is a matter of solidarity and moral justice,” she declared.

In addition, the gangs have not only targeted Haitian citizens, but have also attacked aid workers or made it difficult to distribute aid in different parts of the country. “I want to commend the courage and dedication of humanitarian workers in the face of many obstacles,” he said.

An inclusive and sustainable development

Lastly, Guterres referred to the country’s chronic development deficit as one of the main causes of the crises it is currently facing.

“Only inclusive and sustainable development will contribute to breaking the historical cycle of crisis; to address humanitarian and security challenges; and to create a stable constitutional and political environment,” he noted.

“To the Haitian people I say: the United Nations is with you to support national efforts in the interest of all Haitians, particularly the youth, who deserve a safer, fairer and more peaceful future”, he finished.