The United Nations Security Council unanimously voted on Monday to extend the mandate of the Kenya-led multinational force in Haiti, aimed at combating gang violence. However, the council rejected a Haitian proposal to begin discussions on transforming the force into a full-fledged U.N. peacekeeping mission.
China and Russia successfully removed a paragraph from the resolution that acknowledged the Haitian government’s call for a U.N. peacekeeping force. This decision came despite the recent public support for such a mission by Haiti’s transitional president.
The Kenya-led force, which currently consists of around 400 officers, falls significantly short of its intended size and funding. The U.S. and other countries have urged for increased financial support and the eventual transition to a U.N.-funded peacekeeping operation.
While the U.S. expressed disappointment over the delay in peacekeeping discussions, China and Russia argued that the current force should be given more time to establish itself before considering any changes. They emphasized the challenges and complexities of deploying a peacekeeping mission in Haiti.
Gang violence in Haiti has escalated significantly in recent years, with gangs controlling large portions of the capital and surrounding areas. The violence has led to widespread displacement, humanitarian crises, and a decline in basic services. The Haitian government and international community have expressed growing concern over the deteriorating security situation.
