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International Efforts to Combat Gang Violence in Haiti Continue Uninterrupted

The United Nations Security Council has unanimously extended the mandate of the Kenya-led multinational force working to combat gang violence in Haiti, despite a call from the Haitian government to start talks on transforming it into a UN peacekeeping mission. The 15-0 vote sends a strong message to the people of Haiti, assuring them that the world stands with them in their efforts to restore security and stability.

The multinational force, comprising nearly 400 Kenyan officers and 24 police officers and soldiers from Jamaica, is currently deployed in Haiti. While it falls short of the 2,500 personnel pledged by various countries, including Chad, Benin, Bangladesh, and Barbados, it is also critically underfunded.

US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield emphasized the importance of additional financial contributions, saying that the world must come together to support Haiti’s call for a UN-funded peacekeeping operation. She added that those who oppose a UN force must explain why they are against a call from the Haitian government.

China’s Deputy UN Ambassador Geng Shuang countered that the UN has sent multiple peacekeeping operations to Haiti in the past, but results have been unsatisfactory, and lessons learned have been profound. He urged the implementation of the Kenya-led force’s mandate, warning that discussing other options now would only interfere with its operation.

Russia’s Deputy UN Ambassador Dmitry Polyansky echoed his Chinese counterpart, stating that only three months have passed since the deployment of Kenyan officers, and Russia expects the multinational force to expand its presence. Until then, Russia believes it is premature to plan any transformation to the international presence or changes thereof.

The extension of the multinational force’s mandate signals continued international support for Haiti’s efforts to combat gang violence and restore stability. However, the mission still requires significant funding and the full deployment of pledged personnel to be effective.