PORT-AU-PRINCE: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres arrived in Haiti on a brief visit to demonstrate solidarity with the country’s people as they navigate a series of overlapping security, political, and economic challenges, according to his spokesperson.
Guterres, on his first visit to Haiti as UN secretary-general, is set to meet with Prime Minister Ariel Henry, political leaders, and members of civil society during his stay.
The primary focus of Guterres’ visit is to reaffirm the UN’s support for Haiti and appeal to the international community to continue assisting the country with its humanitarian needs. His office also called for the immediate deployment of an international force to support the Haitian National Police, a request that has been pending for nine months. However, finding a country willing to lead such a force has proven challenging due to perceived risks and uncertain outcomes.
While Canada, Brazil, and several Caribbean nations have shown support for a multinational force to stabilize Haiti, the United States, with its historical involvement in the country, has made it clear that it will not lead such an effort. Instead, the US aims to strengthen the fledgling national police. In the meantime, Haiti grapples with a range of crises, including gang violence, a deteriorating public health situation, and political instability.
UN Raises Concerns About Dire Conditions in Haiti
The United Nations and humanitarian organizations have raised concerns about the dire conditions faced by Haitians on a daily basis, including frequent shootings, kidnappings, and rapes. UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell recently highlighted the unprecedented levels of hunger, malnutrition, poverty, and insecurity that contribute to a downward spiral of violence in the country. The ongoing threat of flooding, earthquakes, and other natural disasters further exacerbates Haiti’s vulnerability, compounded by the effects of climate change.
Guterres’ visit also aims to emphasize the importance of a Haitian-led and inclusive political process leading to elections and the restoration of constitutional order. Prime Minister Ariel Henry’s legitimacy has been questioned since assuming his position shortly before the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in July 2021.
With nearly half of Haiti’s population—approximately 5.2 million people—in need of humanitarian assistance, including three million children, the situation remains dire. The risk of civil war looms, as armed gangs control a significant portion of the capital and rural areas. Instances of vigilante justice have occurred, reflecting the frustration and desperation among the population.
Following his visit to Haiti, Guterres will travel to Trinidad and Tobago to attend a summit of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is also expected to attend the meeting, during which he plans to meet with Prime Minister Ariel Henry.
