The United Nations warned on Monday that escalating violence from armed groups in Haiti is complicating preparations for upcoming legislative elections, originally set for December 13. The UN reported that as security forces intensify operations against gangs, these groups have increasingly adapted their strategies, leading to heightened civilian reprisals.
During a briefing to the UN Security Council, experts indicated that gang-related violence resulted in thousands of Haitian deaths between July and early October, despite ongoing military efforts. They expressed serious concern over the ability of armed groups to modify their tactics in response to police initiatives, including a resurgence in hostage-taking, killings, and assaults on farmland and public infrastructure. Additionally, incidents of sexual violence against women and girls have reportedly surged.
The UN-backed Gang Suppression Force, which was created to address the crisis, remains significantly understaffed; officials noted it is lacking compared to the 5,550 personnel authorized by the Security Council. Recently, an attack targeted an armored vehicle carrying Salvadoran soldiers, further underscoring the ongoing security challenges.
Experts emphasized that while over 35 political parties and 3,500 candidates have registered for the elections, without restoring stability in the country, establishing a new election date would be ineffective. They highlighted that pervasive insecurity and mass displacement hinder the electoral process.
Carlos Ruiz Massieu, the UN’s top official in Haiti, stated that security operations alone cannot establish long-term stabilization. He recommended a renewed state presence and the implementation of disarmament and reintegration programs, particularly addressing the issue of children recruited by gangs.
Since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021, Haiti has seen an escalation of violence, with gangs asserting control over much of the country, particularly in Port-au-Prince. The rising power of gangs has led to a collapse of state authority and a worsening humanitarian crisis, characterized by disease outbreaks and widespread food insecurity affecting millions.
To combat these issues, the UN has maintained a sanctions regime since 2022, which includes an arms embargo and travel bans. Adedeji Ebo, the UN’s deputy disarmament chief, has warned that illicit firearms trafficking is exacerbating the conflict in Haiti and other regions globally.
