UNSC Open Briefing and Closed Consultations on United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti [BINUH]/Haiti

[Thursday; June 16, 2022; 1500 hours (NY time); 12:30 am (IST)]

 India Statement

Mr. President, 

At the outset, let me thank SRSG Helen La Lime for her comprehensive briefing on the implementation of the mandate given by this Council to BINUH (UN Integrated Office in Haiti) and on the recent developments in Haiti. 

2.    As we have seen in the last decade, recovery from the multidimensional challenges in Haiti has not been easy. The resilience of people of Haiti has been tested repeatedly by unpredictable political developments and tragic natural calamities. Last year, Haiti faced challenges on both these fronts. The assassination of President Jovenel Moise in July last year, and the devastating earthquake of high magnitude followed by the hurricane in August. All these calamities have exacerbated the humanitarian crisis. 

3.    The political and security situation, in the last four months, has continued to remain precarious. The Haitian political stakeholders have not been able to reach any agreement on the transition, restoration of functioning institutions, and holding of elections. The dire humanitarian situation has been further complicated by the prevailing economic stagnation. 

4.     In this context, we note the recent efforts of SRSG in facilitating dialogue between the interim government, the opposition, and the civil society groups. It is important to have a clear timeline and road map for the transition and holding of elections. It is important that all Haitian stakeholders work to build trust and confidence and arrive at consensus on restoration of the constitutional order through a realistic and practical road map. 

5.    The restoration of law and order has remained one of the biggest impediments in Haiti. The persisting gang-related violence, kidnappings, mainly in the capital Port-au-Prince has further contributed to insecurity.  In some instances, UN personnel have also been targeted. Such attacks deserve this Council’s strongest condemnation, and we call for swift action against the perpetrators. 

6.    We also reiterate the importance of pro-actively pursuing capacity building of the Haitian National Police. In this regard, we welcome the formal request of the interim government to United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) for assistance in addressing the perennial problem of entry of illicit goods.  We also underscore the importance of smooth and efficient functioning of the respective judicial institutions to address the environment of impunity. 

6.     On mandate renewal, we have taken note of findings of the SG’s assessment that Haiti is undergoing one of the most difficult periods in its history. The presence of BINUH is important and needs to be empowered to support Haitian authorities in a more purposeful manner. My delegation will engage constructively in the mandate renewal discussions. 

7.     India has had a long-standing relation with Haiti and its people. India has been a major Troop Contributing Country to UN Peacekeeping Operations in Haiti and has also contributed 3 Formed Police Units (FPUs) to United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) which were in operation till 2017. India has also been extending assistance to Haiti in its times of need, commencing with the 2010 earthquake rehabilitation efforts. We had also extended emergency financial aid of US$ 2,50,000 to Haiti in the aftermath of Hurricane Mathew in October 2016 and, more recently to address the Covid-19 pandemic, we donated essential life-saving medicines. We have full confidence that the people of Haiti have the strength and resilience to overcome the current challenges they face. India reiterates its commitment to support the people of Haiti in these testing times. 

I thank you.