In a concerted effort to address the escalating crisis in Haiti, Britain and France have announced their commitment to intensifying pressure on criminal gangs operating within the country through the implementation of sanctions. This pledge follows growing concerns regarding the destabilizing activities of armed groups that are exerting control over significant portions of Haiti, including areas in the capital, Port-au-Prince.
In a joint statement, the UK and France expressed their alarm over reports that criminal gangs are coordinating efforts to undermine Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council. The two nations emphasized their determination to maintain strict measures against those who threaten the stability of the Caribbean nation. “We are committed to maintaining pressure on those who seek to destabilise Haiti via the implementation of sanctions, and we call on authorities to fully implement the sanctions regime in Haiti,” the statement said.
Haiti is currently grappling with severe political instability and humanitarian crises, making it the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. In a broader response to the situation, the United Nations Security Council had extended an arms embargo on Haiti this October, urging member states to prevent all types of arms and related materials from entering the nation. Notably, the UN’s sanctions list includes seven prominent leaders of the gangs operating in Haiti, underscoring the international community’s recognition of the urgent need to combat gang violence.
Violence has surged as rival gangs clash for control over lucrative territories within Port-au-Prince, leading to a staggering toll on the local population. Recent data from the United Nations indicates that at least 1,518 individuals were killed and 572 were injured in Haiti during the first three months of this year, a grim outcome attributed to gang attacks, security operations, and violence from self-defense groups.
In response to the ongoing crisis, a Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS), operating under UN auspices, has been deployed in Haiti since early 2023. However, this mission has encountered significant logistical challenges and insufficient funding, which have hindered its ability to effectively contribute to stabilizing the situation on the ground. The collaboration between Britain and France, along with international partners, signals an urgent attempt to bolster efforts aimed at restoring order and security to a nation in dire need of assistance.
