PRESS RELEASE : Restoring security and stability for the Haitian people [October 2022]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 17 October 2022.

Statement by UK Ambassador James Kariuki at the UN Security Council briefing on Haiti.

Thank you, President. And thank you to SRSG La Lime for her sobering briefing this afternoon. I recognise the presence of the representatives of Haiti, the Dominican Republic, Belize, and the Francophonie at the Council. Let me make three points today on behalf of the United Kingdom.

First, we remain deeply concerned with the deterioration of the humanitarian situation within Haiti. Armed gangs are blockading roads and restricting the transport of fuel throughout the country. As a result medical services are unable to reach those people most in need, including those affected by the outbreaks of cholera which have exacerbated the misery of the Haitian people. Fuel must be able to reach hospitals, and routes into hospitals must be cleared so those affected can reach them. Perpetrators of gang violence must be held to account and denied the capacity to spread further instability and suffering. In this regard, we welcome the sanctions resolution proposed by the US and Mexico as a positive contribution for the security and stability of Haiti.

Second, Mr. President, we acknowledge the Haitian Government’s urgent request for international support in tackling the current security situation. We welcome further Council discussion on the authorisation of an international security assistance mission as proposed by the Secretary-General. Led by Haitian needs, the international community should help restore effective governance and combat endemic gang violence. International efforts should also support an environment in which free and fair elections can be held as soon as possible.

Third, the United Kingdom offers its full support to the UN Integrated Office in Haiti, who continue to operate in deeply challenging circumstances. BINUH has provided invaluable assistance to the Haitian government over the course of its mandate. It will play a key role in creating the space for political stakeholders to agree a solution that restores security and stability for the Haitian people.

Thank you.