The violence directed against the commune of Kenscoff in Haiti, is horrific and unacceptable: UK statement at the UN Security Council
Statement by Ambassador Kate Foster, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Haiti.
The United Kingdom stands with the Government and people of Haiti.
The violence directed against the commune of Kenscoff is horrific and unacceptable.
But this is just one example of a wider pattern of violence.
We condemn all perpetrators of gang attacks, including the use of civilians as human shields, hostage taking, sexual violence, and the deliberate targeting of vulnerable communities.
These are not merely criminal acts.
They are calculated assaults on communities designed to spread fear, undermine state authority, and further entrench gang control.
The people of Haiti deserve to live free from such terror.
We are alarmed by reports that gangs have targeted individuals and organisations providing vital humanitarian and medical support to affected communities.
This includes Dr Jean “Bill” Pape, who has previously briefed this Council and whose efforts have saved countless lives.
Humanitarian and medical workers must be protected and allowed to operate safely and without obstruction.
President, the security situation in Haiti demonstrates once again the urgency of sustained international action.
The United Kingdom supports the efforts of the United States and Panama to renew the authorisation for the Gang Suppression Force without delay.
We must bring the full weight of this Council’s tools to bear, including expanding sanctions designations against gang leaders and those who enable, finance, and profit from their activities.
We also welcome Germany’s announcement that it will provide the necessary airlift support to facilitate the deployment of GSF personnel.
The international community must remain united in our support towards the Haitian Peace and the Government of Haiti.
This will be critical to enable their efforts to restore security, re-establish state authority, and protect civilians.
It is these conditions that are necessary for political progress, economic recovery, and ultimately, lasting stability.
The people of Haiti have endured far too much.
They deserve our solidarity, our resolve, and our action.
The United Kingdom remains committed to supporting Haiti and working with partners across the Council to confront this crisis.