A U.N. human rights expert emphasized the necessity of a specialized international force to combat gang violence in Haiti. Additionally, he called for the immediate implementation of a weapons embargo. William O’Neill, who assumed the role of human rights expert for Haiti in April, shared his observations following a 10-day trip where he engaged with civil society leaders, government officials, and victims of gang violence. He expressed concern over the country’s pervasive violence, poverty, fear, and suffering, stressing the urgency for action to safeguard the nation’s survival.
O’Neill highlighted the palpable absence of governmental presence and the detrimental impact of officials’ inadequate response on the populace’s access to essential resources such as water, food, healthcare, education, and housing. While recognizing the immense challenges faced by Haitian authorities, O’Neill asserted that the government has a responsibility to address these issues, albeit within its limited capacity.
In light of the government’s shortcomings, O’Neill underscored the dire conditions experienced by entire neighborhoods devoid of public services. He further revealed that the police department, which is understaffed and under-resourced, struggles to combat the escalating gang violence. Since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021, gangs have consolidated their power, now controlling up to 80% of the capital. Consequently, access to food and supplies has been severely hindered, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the country.
The surge in violent acts such as killings, rapes, and kidnappings has resulted in a violent uprising by civilians. Since April, nearly 200 people have been killed in clashes between civilians and suspected gang members. While some critics argue that innocent people may be targeted in the process, O’Neill attributes the uprising to the failure of Haiti’s judicial system.
O’Neill called for the deployment of a specialized international force to collaborate with Haiti’s National Police, emphasizing the importance of restoring freedom of movement. He also stressed the need for an arms embargo, particularly targeting weapons originating from the U.S., as Haiti does not produce its own weapons. Despite numerous appeals for such a deployment, including a request made by Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry in October of the previous year, the U.N. Security Council has not taken action and has instead opted for imposing sanctions.
In addition, O’Neill criticized the inhumane conditions faced by inmates in the main prisons of Port-au-Prince and Cap-Haitien. He highlighted the loss of over 200 lives among prisoners in the previous year and urged authorities to prioritize the well-being and dignity of detainees, ensuring their immediate and continuous access to basic necessities. Furthermore, O’Neill called for the restoration of operations at a court in Port-au-Prince that has been under the control of gangs and non-functional for an extended period.
Lastly, O’Neill urged the Haitian government to address the issue of sexual violence, as the number of incidents has doubled in recent months. He noted that gangs often engage in collective rape as a means of exerting control over the population.
In conclusion, the situation in Haiti necessitates immediate and comprehensive action to combat gang violence, alleviate the prevailing humanitarian crisis, and restore law and order. The involvement of a specialized international force, an arms embargo, and efforts to improve prison conditions and combat sexual violence are crucial steps towards achieving stability and justice for the Haitian people.
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