David Powell
Updated on: October 9, 2024 7:12 am GMT
U.S. and U.N. Evaluate Future of Kenya-led Police Mission in Haiti
In a critical moment for Haiti’s stability, the United States and Ecuador have proposed a resolution to the United Nations (U.N.) calling for a comprehensive review of the Kenyan-led police mission currently stationed in the Caribbean nation. The recommendation comes in light of ongoing funding issues, which threaten to derail the mission’s ability to stabilize a country grappling with rampant gang violence and social unrest.
Background of the Kenya-led Mission
Since June 2023, nearly 400 police officers from Kenya have been deployed to Haiti as part of an international effort to curb escalating gang-related violence, which intensified following the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021. This deployment marked the first multinational police operation in Haiti in several years, aiming to restore order in a nation where gangs are reported to control up to 80% of the capital, Port-au-Prince.
The U.N. claims that despite some recent progress, such as economic activities restarting in certain areas and operations that have regained control of significant public facilities, the security situation remains dire. Just last week, the Haitian government expanded a state of emergency to encompass the entire country, responding to violent outbreaks and systemic issues that have been exacerbated by the government’s lack of legitimacy.
Proposed Changes and Funding Challenges
A draft resolution submitted to the U.N. seeks to initiate planning for a U.N. peacekeeping operation to succeed the current Kenya-led mission, mainly due to significant funding challenges that have arisen. The Kenya-led initiative has relied heavily on voluntary contributions, predominantly from the U.S. and Canada, raising concerns about its sustainability. Reports indicate that only $85 million has been pledged for the mission, with only $68 million actually received, starkly contrasting with the estimated $600 million annual cost required to maintain operations.
Blinken’s Visit and Humanitarian Aid
During a visit to Port-au-Prince on Thursday, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken reinforced the American commitment to assist Haiti amid these turbulent times. In discussions with Interim Prime Minister Garry Conille, Blinken announced a new infusion of humanitarian aid, totaling $45 million, in response to the acute needs spurred by escalating violence and a humanitarian crisis affecting over half a million displaced individuals within the country.
“At this critical moment, we do need more funding and personnel to sustain and carry out the objectives of this mission,” Blinken stated, emphasizing the necessity for continued U.S. support for both financial and operational aspects of the multinational mission.
Concerns Over Past Interventions
The memory of previous U.N. peacekeeping operations looms large in the minds of many Haitians, casting a shadow over the current discussions regarding potential future deployments. Past missions have been marred by scandals, including a cholera outbreak linked to Nepalese troops that resulted in nearly 10,000 deaths, as well as incidents of sexual exploitation involving peacekeepers. This legacy has fostered skepticism among the population regarding foreign military presence, with some viewing it as an occupation rather than genuine assistance.
As Haiti grapples with its public safety crisis, any new peacekeeping operation will require rigorous involvement from the U.N. Security Council, necessitating approval for the mission as well as the commitment of troops and equipment from member states. U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric acknowledged that such processes can be lengthy, complicating immediate responses to the prevailing violence.
Challenges of Gang Violence
Since the assassination of President Moïse, the power of gangs in Haiti has surged, with groups now dominating vast areas and engaging in violence that has led to civilian retaliations and vigilante actions. The U.N. reported that coordinated gang attacks in early 2024 highlighted the escalating insecurity, including targeted strikes on police stations and major infrastructure, which culminated in the temporary closure of the international airport and prison breakouts that released thousands of inmates.
Despite the arrival of Kenyan police troops, the ongoing violence raises questions about the efficacy of the force and whether additional international intervention is necessary. U.S. officials are weighing various options, including a transition to a U.N. peacekeeping force, underscoring the urgency of establishing a reliable and sustainable security framework in Haiti.
The Path Forward
As discussions continue about the future of security initiatives in Haiti, Blinken emphasized the need for the Haitian government to establish a stable and democratically elected administration. The U.S. has called for plans to conduct general elections in the coming year, acknowledging that the lack of an elected government has significantly undermined public trust and contributed to the rise in gang influence.
While the immediate focus remains on stabilizing the country through enhanced security operations, the long-term success of any intervention in Haiti will ultimately rely on fostering democratic governance and addressing the root causes of instability.
As the international community considers the next steps in supporting Haiti, the intricacies of past interventions and current challenges serve as critical reminders of the need for diligence and sensitivity in addressing the needs of the Haitian people.
- U.N. Peacekeeping Operations Overview
- U.S. Department of State: Haiti
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