UN official urges stronger global support as gang violence escalates in Haiti

By Servet Gunerigok

WASHINGTON (AA) - A UN coordinator has expressed concern over escalating violence in Haiti, urging support for a multinational mission there to restore peace amidst relentless gang activity.

"In Haiti, we have a situation of escalating violence," said Ulrika Richardson, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Haiti, during a press briefing remotely on Wednesday.

Richardson noted that gang violence has intensified since the installation of Haiti's new prime minister on Nov. 11, which coincided with critical incidents, including gangs shooting at incoming airplanes, forcing the closure of the airport.

She said since the new prime minister assuming office, the gangs have escalated violence, in terms of killings and lynching on part of the armed gangs.

Richardson highlighted the growing territorial control of gangs in the capital, resulting in increased killings and lynchings, which have severely impacted the local population.

"Just over the past few days, thousands of people have had to again leave their homes and seek shelter. And this puts a lot of pressure on the already very, very strained capacities in terms of providing protection, but also food, shelter and water to displaced people," said Richardson.

She said the new government installation in Haiti on this Saturday went rather smoothly, "but we have not seen, unfortunately, a decrease of violence since then.

"In fact, the police is struggling to respond. We, we salute their courage. And also, of course, the MSS, the multinational support mission that is present in Haiti that is backing up the police. However, these efforts are not sufficient," she said.

She reiterated the UN call to continue support the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS) in Haiti to be able to respond to the critical situation on the ground.

"We are watching the situation with great concern, and again, we call upon member states to put the needed support behind the Multinational Security Support Mission so that it can, in turn, support the national police," she added.

- Haiti’s escalating crisis

Haiti, with a population of over 11 million, faces severe challenges, including political instability, economic turmoil, and a worsening security crisis. Armed gangs now control approximately 80% of the capital, intensifying daily violence.

According to the UN Integrated Office in Haiti, armed gang violence has claimed 3,900 lives since the beginning of the year.

The surge in violence has also led to significant political changes. Former Prime Minister Ariel Henry resigned in April 2024, prompting the establishment of a Transitional Council.

Garry Conille was appointed as Prime Minister on May 28 but was replaced on November 11 by businessman Alix Didier Fils-Aimé following a council decision.