A new proposal has been introduced at the United Nations Security Council by the United States and Panama to create an international security force for Haiti, called the “Gang Suppression Force.”
Details of the Proposal
The draft resolution outlines two main components:
- The creation of a UN Support Office in Haiti to provide funding and logistical backing.
- The deployment of a Gang Suppression Force tasked with dismantling armed groups and strengthening the operational capacity of both the Haitian National Police (PNH) and the Armed Forces of Haiti (FADH).
Context and Challenges
This initiative comes at a time when the current Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS), led by Kenya, continues to face major obstacles, including:
- Limited resources
- Heavy responsibilities
- Strong resistance from local armed groups
U.S. Position
The U.S. representative at the Security Council emphasized that the new force would have a clear mandate to directly confront gangs while also supporting Haitian institutions to regain control of the country.
What It Means for Haiti
If adopted, the Gang Suppression Force could mark a new phase of international involvement in Haiti’s security crisis. However, questions remain about implementation, effectiveness, and the ability to gain broad support both within Haiti and internationally.
Sources: Reuters, Métronome Haiti (via X & website)
