The UN Security Council has authorized the creation of a new multinational Gang Suppression Force (GSF) in Haiti to replace the Kenyan-led security support mission, amid escalating gang violence, widespread human rights abuses, and a severe humanitarian crisis affecting all aspects of life in the country. The resolution, co-sponsored by Panama and the United States and supported by multiple countries, was adopted with 12 votes in favor and three abstentions from China, Pakistan, and Russia.
Under an initial 12-month mandate, the 5,550-strong GSF will operate alongside the Haitian National Police (HNP) and the Haitian armed forces, conducting intelligence-led operations to neutralize gangs, securing critical infrastructure, facilitating humanitarian access, protecting vulnerable populations, supporting reintegration of former combatants, and strengthening Haitian institutions. The previous Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission faced chronic underfunding, insufficient personnel, and limited capacity, which hindered its ability to control gangs that now dominate large portions of Port-au-Prince.
Haiti is grappling with nearly 1.3 million internally displaced persons, a surge in kidnappings, widespread sexual violence, and armed gangs controlling extensive urban areas. Ambassador Eloy Alfaro de Alba of Panama highlighted the urgency of international intervention, emphasizing that the Council’s support sends a message that Haiti is not alone in addressing this multidimensional crisis.
The resolution also tasks the UN Secretary-General with establishing a UN Support Office in Haiti (UNSOH) to provide logistical and operational assistance to the GSF, HNP, and Haitian armed forces. UNSOH will handle rations, medical care, transportation, strategic communications, troop rotation, and support the Organization of American States’ SECURE-Haiti project while ensuring compliance with international human rights standards.
US Ambassador Mike Waltz emphasized that the new GSF is five times the size of its predecessor and has a stronger mandate to confront gangs and restore security in Haiti. While the GSF will support Haitian authorities, the Council underscored that the Haitian government retains primary responsibility for national security, governance reforms, and addressing corruption, illegal arms flows, and child recruitment by gangs.
Haiti’s ambassador, Pierre Ericq Pierre, described the creation of the GSF as a decisive turning point, providing the international community with the operational capacity and mandate necessary to respond to the country’s grave security and humanitarian challenges. The strengthened mission reflects a significant escalation in international support to help Haiti regain control over its security situation and restore stability.
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