Five countries – The Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Benin, and Chad – have formally informed the United Nations of their commitment to provide personnel for an international force aiding Haitian national police in combating armed gangs.
This announcement, made by a U.N. spokesperson, coincides with the deposit of $10.8 million into a trust fund designated to support the multinational security assistance mission. Furthermore, additional pledges totaling $78 million have been secured.
The move follows the authorization by the United Nations Security Council of a foreign security mission to Haiti, prompted by the country’s request for help in addressing the rampant violence perpetrated by gangs in its capital, Port-au-Prince.
Despite the Security Council’s approval, it’s noteworthy that the mission does not operate directly under U.N. auspices. Benin, one of the contributing nations, has disclosed plans to deploy approximately 1,500 personnel, while specifics regarding the commitments from the remaining four countries remain pending.
In a parallel development, the United Nations has drawn attention to the dire humanitarian situation in Haiti, where an estimated 5.5 million individuals – half of the population – require urgent assistance. In response, the U.N. has issued an appeal for $674 million in funding for the year 2024.
This appeal follows a significant funding shortfall experienced last year, with only a third of the requested amount being received.
This mobilization of international support underscores the gravity of the security and humanitarian challenges facing Haiti. While efforts to bolster security through foreign assistance are underway, the pressing need for humanitarian aid remains paramount to alleviate the suffering of millions in the country.
