The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has welcomed the adoption of a United Nations Security Council resolution establishing a UN Support Office and authorising the transition of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission into a Gang Suppression Force (GSF) in Haiti.
In a statement on Tuesday, the CARICOM Caucus of Ambassadors said the resolution represents “a fundamental step that responds to the urgency of the security situation in Haiti.”
“CARICOM applauds the resounding support of world leaders for the urgent and united action towards the restoration of peace and stability in Haiti, echoed throughout the recently concluded General Debate of the 80th session of the General Assembly. These critical objectives can only be achieved if security is restored in Haiti,” the statement said.
CARICOM noted that the GSF, now with a UN-authorized mandate, is expected to bring an immediate end to gang violence and help restore public safety. The bloc also endorsed the establishment of a UN Support Office in Haiti to provide logistical and administrative assistance for the force.
“Furthermore, CARICOM endorses the establishment of a UN Support Office in Haiti to provide the necessary logistical and administrative support for this robust Force. Finally, we underscore the need to ensure sustainable, predictable resourcing of the Gang Suppression Force by all international partners. And we also renew our call for the urgent capitalisation of the 2025 humanitarian needs and response plan for Haiti,” the statement added.
The Caucus emphasized that urgent and collective international action is required to curb gang violence and create conditions for elections, humanitarian relief, institutional rebuilding, and long-term economic development in the country.
“Only through urgent, collective action in the security domain, in support of Haiti, can the scourge of gang violence be arrested. This is a critical first step towards creating favourable conditions for elections, sustained delivery of humanitarian support and relief, the rebuilding of institutions and the laying of the foundation for the long-term economic development of Haiti,” CARICOM stated.
The regional body reaffirmed its solidarity with Haiti and its readiness to work alongside members of the Security Council and the wider international community to “end the violence and suffering that the people of Haiti have endured for too long.”
