Carlos Ruiz Massieu, speaking for the first time as head of the UN Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH), highlighted the ongoing challenges facing the country, including widespread gang violence, a severe humanitarian crisis, and an upcoming political transition. He emphasized that despite dire circumstances, the Haitian people continue to demonstrate resilience. The UN official noted that armed groups are increasingly targeting rural and peri-urban communities, causing an unprecedented level of internal displacement, now affecting over 1.4 million people. He also drew attention to the deteriorating human rights situation, with abuses linked to gang attacks, self-defense groups, and some security operations.
Regarding the political transition, Massieu expressed concern over the lack of a clear path toward restoring democratic governance, with authority expected to transfer to elected officials by 7 February next year. He welcomed efforts by Haitian authorities to engage political representatives in consultations to prevent a post-election vacuum and stressed the importance of sustained national dialogue to rebuild consensus on the country’s future. BINUH will provide technical and logistical support to facilitate the upcoming elections and support a peaceful and orderly transition.
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