United States Seeks U.N. Authorization for "Gang Suppression Force" in Haiti

Strategic Insights -

The United States, along with Panama, is seeking U.N. authorization for a new "Gang Suppression Force" to tackle the escalating violence in Haiti, where armed groups are expanding their activities from the capital into the countryside. The announcement was made by Acting U.S. Ambassador Dorothy Shea at a U.N. Security Council meeting, where she thanked Kenya for leading a multinational force in the Caribbean nation for over a year. The U.S. and Panama will circulate a draft resolution to establish the Gang Suppression Force and create a U.N. Support Office to provide logistical support.

Key Takeaways:

  • The United States and Panama are seeking U.N. authorization for a new "Gang Suppression Force" to combat escalating violence in Haiti.
  • The Gang Suppression Force will differ from the current Kenya-led Multinational Security Support force, with a significant increase in size and U.N. logistical support.
  • The U.S. will be circulating a draft resolution to establish the Gang Suppression Force and create a U.N. Support Office to provide logistical support.
  • The draft resolution is expected to propose significant changes to the Kenya-led mission, including an increase in size and greater U.N. involvement.
  • The Gang Suppression Force will provide a "new path towards peace and security" in Haiti, according to Acting U.S. Ambassador Dorothy Shea.
  • The international community is being called upon to provide "meaningful burden sharing" to help promote stability in Haiti.
  • The Security Council has been urged to act "without delay" to authorize an international force, supported by the U.N. with logistical and operational backing.

Statistics:

  • 1.3 million people (half of them children) have fled their homes in Haiti due to violence.
  • 6 million people need humanitarian assistance in Haiti.
  • The U.N.'s appeal for $908 million to help 3.9 million people this year is less than 10% funded.
  • 1.7 million Haitians risk receiving no assistance at all unless donors act now.

Sources:

  • U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' February proposal to open an office providing logistical support to the Kenya-led mission.
  • The United States, Panama, and several other countries' letter to U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, informing him of their intention to establish a "Standing Group of Partners" to provide strategic direction and oversight for a revamped security force.
  • Acting U.S. Ambassador Dorothy Shea's statement at the U.N. Security Council meeting, announcing the U.S. and Panama's intention to establish the Gang Suppression Force.