UNSC Briefing/Consultations on Haiti

[Wednesday, 21 December 2022, 15:00 hrs.]

Statement by Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj

Permanent Representative of India to the UN

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I will now make a statement in my national capacity.

2. I thank Deputy Secretary General Ms. Amina Mohammed (TBC), SRSG Helen La Lime, the Chair of the Haiti Sanctions Committee Ambassador Michel Xavier Biang and Civil Society briefer Mr. Kim Ives for their remarks. I also thank Ambassador Bob Rae, for his remarks as the Chair of the Ad Hoc Advisory Group in Haiti. I welcome the presence of Foreign Minister of Haiti and Foreign Minister of the Dominican Republic in today’s meeting.

3. As we heard from all briefers today, it is a matter of concern that the security and humanitarian situation in Haiti has not seen any significant improvement since adoption of Resolution 2653 in October this year. The security situation has worsened owing to the impunity with which armed groups and criminal networks are having a free run. The killings of civilians, kidnappings and other human rights violations have increased. There have been high profile killings as well, including a former Presidential candidate.

4. Access to healthcare and essential services, including water, food, sanitation, and supply services has remained limited. Fuel shortage is having a negative impact on every aspect of society as well. The humanitarian situation has aggravated further with the outbreak of cholera epidemic. The response capacity of the health system is under strain. Given the dire situation, the need of the hour is that the international community and UN agencies enhance their humanitarian assistance. Clearly, the situation demands sustained attention of this Council.

5. The immediate priority today has to be on reigning in the criminal gangs, and bring semblance of order, particularly in the capital city, Port Au Prince. In this regard, we welcome the security assistance being extended by countries in the region. We hope that these steps will help the Haitian Police authorities in addressing the persistent destabilizing criminal activities perpetrated by armed gangs. The capacity building needs of the Haitian Police also need particular attention. Any decision on the deployment of a regional security mechanism should be carefully thought-out, taking into consideration the experience from the past, including that of UN Missions.

6. The multifaceted political, security and economic crisis in Haiti demands all Haitian stakeholders to engage in meaningful negotiations. There is an urgent need to arrive at a consensus on a political road map for holding of the long due elections. The Haitian parties also need to ensure the process is both inclusive and legitimate. In the long term, institutional stability, good governance, and the rule of law are essential to avoid relapse of current phase of political impasse. In this regard, we commend the facilitating role of the SRSG and the UN Integrated Office in Haiti [BINUH]. We also note the proactive engagement of regional partners in support of Haiti.

7. 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. India has long-standing relations with Haiti and its people. We have always contributed to capacity building and training initiatives in Haiti. Today too, we stand ready to continue our support to the people of Haiti in their efforts to emerge from the current challenging situation.