UNSC Briefing/Consultations on BINUH (Haiti)

India Statement

by

Mr.  R. Ravindra

DPR/Political Coordinator

22 February 2021

Thank you, Mr. President.

At the outset, let me welcome the presence of President of Haiti, H. E. Mr. Jovenel Moise in the meeting. I would like to join others in thanking SRSG Helen La Lime for her briefing on recent developments in Haiti. I also thank Ms. Vivianne Roc for bringing civil society perspective to today’s  meeting.

2. Today’s briefing provides us with an opportunity to assess the situation in Haiti and the activities of the UN Mission in fulfilling its chapter VI mandate, in particular the six benchmarks concerning the Integrated Strategic Framework.

3. My delegation takes positive note of all that Haiti has achieved in the last decade, following the devastating earthquake of 2010. The recovery of Haiti from the earthquake and cholera epidemic; holding of elections in 2010 and 2015 and the peaceful transfer of power and better policing capacity reflect the resilience of the Haitian people. We also acknowledge the significant role played by the international community and bilateral partners in supporting the Haitian recovery.

4. Nonetheless, the Haitian people continue to suffer from the effects of a multi-dimensional crisis that unfortunately has been prolonged for decades. Today more than ever, they require the unwavering support of the international community. Haiti, as reflected in the SG’s report and evident from recent political developments, is facing serious political and security challenges. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has also adversely impacted the economic and humanitarian situation. Recent developments reflect the fragile nature of the political situation and trust deficit among political actors. The lack of objective interpretation of the Constitutional law has only accentuated the political differences, thereby adversely impacting institutional stability, good governance, and the rule of law.

5. This year will be critical for Haiti, in its efforts to build on the democratic gains made in the last decade. Political stability is fundamental to effective governance to stimulate overall socio-economic development. In order to achieve long-term political stability, it is crucial that all stakeholders engage in national dialogue and work towards conducting peaceful and credible legislative and Presidential elections.

6. In this regard, let me make following observations:

i. We have taken note of the appointment of an Independent Consultative Constitutional Committee. We hope that a consultative process involving all stakeholders will be undertaken to reach decisions that adequately reflect the hopes and aspirations of the people of Haiti.

ii. The disarmament, demobilization and reintegration project being carried out under the SG’s Peacebuilding Fund is helping in addressing the issue of violence wrought by armed gangs. We hope for the early implementation of the National Community Violence Reduction Strategy by the Haitian authorities. We also welcome steps to strengthen the Haitian National Police to deal with gang violence and its approach towards the community.

iii. The progress in justice reforms is critical to regain the trust of the people. In this regard, we note the role played by the General Inspectorate of the Haitian National Police in police reforms. Similar such proactive initiatives in other spheres of public security and criminal justice would be welcome.

iv. On benchmarks 5 (unemployment, youth, and other vulnerable groups) and 6 (Basic social service delivery and resilience), we have taken note of the activities of the Mission in supporting the efforts of the Government, and  encourage it to continue its activities in line with the mandate.

7. India stands ready to work with the UN Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) and UN country team in carrying out their mandate especially in priority areas such as delivery of justice, convening of elections and violence reduction, by carrying out holistic capacity and institution building activities, with full national ownership. We join the call for all stakeholders to engage in national dialogue to bring political stability, usher in Constitutional reforms, and conduct elections peacefully to promote democratic institutions in the country, with the support of international community.

8. Madam President, India has had a long association with Haiti and its people. India has been a major Troop Contributing Country to UN Peacekeeping Operations in Haiti and has contributed 3 Formed Police Units (FPUs) to MINUSTAH in 2008 and MINUJUSTH in 2017.The final batch of the Indian contingent of Assam Rifles departed Haiti in August 2019, and was awarded the United Nation’s medal in recognition of their valuable work in the country. India contributed to the efforts of the Haitian authorities to deal with the devastating earthquake in 2010. In the immediate aftermath of the earthquake, India contributed US$ 5 million to the Government of Haiti towards relief measures including the construction of a Gandhi Housing Village, as a token of our solidarity with the people of Haiti. India also provided emergency financial aid to Haiti in the aftermath of Hurricane Mathew in October 2016. In July 2020, a project of US$ 1 million was approved under the India-UNDP fund for installation of Solar Pumps in Haiti. India has been assisting Haiti in its fight against the COVID-19 pandemic having provided HCQ, essential medicines and protective gear worth in July last year and is now in the process of sending 10,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines. We look forward to continuing our support to the people of Haiti in their efforts to emerge more resilient from the current challenging times. Thank You.

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