The United Nations has established a new support office in Haiti following a resolution in September to assist the Gang Suppression Force and the UN political mission in the country (BINUH). Stephen McOwan has been appointed interim director, joining 37 staff members already operating in Port-au-Prince. A second office was also set up in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, to provide resources, finance, and travel services, and the country will serve as a designated medical evacuation destination if needed. The first UN helicopter for operations has arrived in Port-au-Prince, with additional equipment arriving from the UN Logistics Base in Brindisi and from the now-closed UN mission in Iraq (UNAMI).
In Syria, UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador Theo James visited areas including Damascus, Zabadani, and Eastern Ghouta, reflecting on the resilience of families returning home after years of conflict. James highlighted the importance of providing safety to those fleeing persecution and noted that almost 90 per cent of the population still requires humanitarian assistance. Despite the widespread destruction of infrastructure and limited access to basic services, James expressed hope for the future, emphasizing the critical role of UNHCR in supporting returning families.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the UN and humanitarian partners have launched an urgent $1.4 billion appeal to assist millions of people in need this year. Nearly 15 million people require aid, although limited funding means efforts will prioritize the 7.3 million most vulnerable, a decrease from 11 million last year. The appeal focuses on areas affected by conflict, climate hazards, and recurrent epidemics, covering 228 health zones compared to 332 in 2025. UN Humanitarian Coordinator Bruno Lemarquis highlighted the difficult choices humanitarian actors must make due to immense needs and constrained resources, particularly in the eastern regions affected by ongoing violence, including the M23 rebel offensive that began in January 2025.
These developments illustrate ongoing UN efforts to provide support and coordination in regions facing complex humanitarian, political, and security challenges.
