Security Council Speakers Emphasize Urgency in Addressing Gang Violence and Arms Flow
While the new year brings high hopes for progress in Haiti, the United Nations Security Council emphasized that achieving stability requires ongoing security measures, international cooperation, and political accountability. Carlos Ruiz Massieu, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Haiti, urged national stakeholders to unite ahead of the transitional arrangement’s expiration on February 7. He highlighted recent advancements in electoral preparations but warned of the persistent threat posed by gangs, which continue to disrupt daily life and hinder humanitarian efforts.
Progress in Electoral Preparations
Recent developments in Haiti’s electoral landscape have sparked optimism among officials. Massieu noted the adoption of an electoral decree on December 1 and the subsequent release of an electoral calendar on December 23 as particularly encouraging steps. These initiatives aim to pave the way for credible and inclusive elections, with new legal provisions addressing voter registration, diaspora participation, and women’s political inclusion. Massieu emphasized that the Prime Minister’s declaration of 2026 as an electoral year hinges on effective implementation of these measures, alongside consistent institutional coordination and secure conditions for voter participation. However, the ongoing violence and instability, primarily driven by gang activity, pose significant challenges to these electoral goals.
Challenges Posed by Gang Violence
Gang violence remains a critical issue in Haiti, with organized groups exerting control over vital economic corridors and agricultural regions. Massieu reported a nearly 20% increase in intentional homicides in 2025 compared to the previous year, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced security measures. Despite these challenges, he acknowledged that sustained pressure on gangs has led to some positive outcomes, including the reopening of key road networks and a restored state presence in parts of Port-au-Prince and Artibonite. However, he cautioned that without continued efforts to maintain security and deliver essential services, any gains made could quickly reverse. The establishment of the United Nations Support Office in Haiti (UNSOH) is seen as a crucial step, but it requires adequate resources from member states to support the Gang Suppression Force effectively.
Addressing Illicit Arms Trafficking
The evolving landscape of organized crime in Haiti has raised alarms among international officials. John Brandolino, Acting Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), presented a report detailing the rise of structured criminal networks that have emerged from fragmented local gangs. These networks are now characterized by defined leadership, territorial ambitions, and diversified revenue streams. Brandolino highlighted the link between organized violence and arms trafficking, noting a significant increase in high-caliber and military-grade weapons entering Haiti through various routes. He pointed to the Dominican Republic’s successful border control measures as a model, but acknowledged that traffickers have adapted by shifting operations to less secure Haitian ports. The illicit firearms trade is further fueled by private security companies and informal self-defense groups, complicating enforcement efforts.
The Need for Stronger Enforcement and Support
Brandolino’s findings indicate that Haiti’s crisis has escalated into a broader regional security threat, necessitating a coordinated response. He called for stronger enforcement of the UN arms embargo and sustained anti-corruption initiatives to combat the evolving criminal networks. Additionally, he stressed the importance of providing adequate support for the Gang Suppression Force and UNSOH to restore stability and uphold the rule of law. As Haiti navigates these complex challenges, the international community’s commitment to addressing both immediate security concerns and long-term political stability will be crucial in shaping the country’s future.
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