#HaitiCrisis

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News | Oct 21, 2024

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Dire Humanitarian, Security, and Political Crisis Grips Haiti: Urgent International Action Needed, Says UK Ambassador at UN Security Council

  A Nation in Crisis

In a recent statement at the United Nations Security Council, Ambassador James Kariuki expressed grave concern over the dire humanitarian, security, and political crisis that has enveloped Haiti. The country is currently grappling with an alarming rise in gang violence, resulting in the complete takeover of entire neighborhoods. The situation has led to widespread killings, burnings, kidnappings, and severe restrictions on movement, leaving the population in a state of constant fear and vulnerability.   Gangs' Reign of Terror and Sexual Violence Of particular distress are the harrowing accounts of armed gangs employing sexual violence, including collective rape, as a deliberate tactic to instill fear within communities. This abhorrent use of sexual violence serves as a weapon to maintain control and dominance over the population. Such acts have perpetuated a climate of terror, leaving the people of Haiti traumatized and in urgent need of assistance.   Humanitarian Assistance in Desperate Demand The dire circumstances have pushed nearly half of Haiti's population into a state of acute vulnerability, necessitating immediate humanitarian assistance. Ambassador Kariuki highlighted the pressing need for the Security Council to consider effective measures to address the ongoing cycle of violence and ensure the well-being of the Haitian people.  

Seeking Security and Stability

Recognizing the Haitian Government's call for urgent international security assistance, the United Kingdom emphasizes the importance of achieving both security and political stability in Haiti. The recent CARICOM-hosted stakeholder meeting held in Jamaica was welcomed as a positive step towards addressing the crisis. The UK hopes that the regional support provided during this meeting will encourage sustained domestic efforts to restore stability within the country.   A Call for Inclusive Elections In order to restore political stability, the United Kingdom urges all stakeholders to engage constructively and prepare for inclusive, free, and fair legislative and presidential elections. However, the timing of these elections must be contingent upon the improvement of the local security situation to ensure the safety and participation of all citizens. The UK stands ready to support Haiti in this endeavor.   Strengthening BINUH's Capabilities In addition to regional and national efforts, the United Kingdom emphasizes the importance of ensuring that the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) possesses the necessary capabilities to fulfill its mandate effectively. The UK recognizes the vital work being done by Special Representative of the Secretary-General Helen La Lime Salvador and her team under challenging circumstances. Discussions on the renewal of BINUH's mandate are underway, and the UK looks forward to concluding these discussions in the coming days.  

Commitment to Addressing the Crisis

Ambassador Kariuki reaffirmed the United Kingdom's commitment to supporting the Government of Haiti and the international community in their efforts to address this urgent crisis. The gravity of the situation necessitates immediate action, and the UK stands ready to contribute to the collective response.  

A History of Humanitarian Challenges in Haiti

Haiti, a nation plagued by a long history of humanitarian crises, finds itself once again at the brink of devastation. For decades, the country has faced a series of challenges, including poverty, political instability, natural disasters, and now the menacing grip of violent gangs. These persistent issues have severely impacted the lives of the Haitian people, leaving them vulnerable and in urgent need of international assistance. The current dire humanitarian situation represents a culmination of systemic challenges that have plagued Haiti for years, requiring immediate and concerted efforts to break the cycle of suffering and provide a path towards a more stable and prosperous future.   Sources: THX News, Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office & James Kariuki. Read the full article

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News | Oct 9, 2024