Wayne Lumbasi
The United Nations has taken a decisive step to address Haiti’s spiraling gang violence, approving a militarized force to restore order in the country. The Security Council authorized a new mission, replacing the Kenya led Multinational Security Support operation, which struggled with limited resources since 2024.
The force will include up to 5,550 personnel including military, police, and civilian units, tasked with neutralizing gangs, protecting critical infrastructure, and supporting the Haitian National Police.
Operating under Chapter VII of the UN Charter, the mission has the authority to conduct military operations, arrest gang leaders, and facilitate humanitarian aid. It will also assist in organizing national elections, aiming to stabilize governance amid chaos.
Haiti’s capital, Port au Prince, remains largely under gang control, with violence displacing over 1.3 million people. Alarmingly, many gang members are minors, reflecting the deep social challenges the country faces.
The resolution, co-sponsored by the United States and Panama, passed with 12 votes in favor. China, Russia, and Pakistan abstained. While international support is strong, critics caution that logistical challenges and underfunding could hinder the mission’s effectiveness. The United States has pledged conditional funding, emphasizing the need for sustained international support.
Haitian officials welcomed the move, viewing it as essential for restoring order and paving the way for democratic elections. The success of the mission will depend on close coordination between the UN force and local authorities, alongside long term commitment from the global community.
The approval of this militarized force marks a major shift in addressing Haiti’s security crisis. It offers a rare opportunity to curb gang dominance, stabilize the nation, and provide the framework for recovery, but only if executed with adequate resources, coordination, and determination.
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