UN Envoy Outlines Electoral Progress and Severe Security Challenges in Haiti

NEW YORK — Carlos Ruiz Massieu, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH), briefed the UN Security Council on the political and security developments in Haiti, highlighting significant electoral progress alongside persistent gang violence.

Addressing the Security Council, Ruiz Massieu noted that political transition efforts have progressed despite a challenging security context. Electoral preparations have reached an advanced stage, with over 35 political parties registered and more than 3,500 candidates running for elective office. Recent measures under a revised electoral decree include the extension of candidate registration periods, steps to facilitate female candidacies, and the introduction of online voter registration.

Ruiz Massieu also highlighted an October 5 resolution by Haiti's Council of Ministers to ensure equal opportunity among political actors, including sanctions against the use of state resources for campaigning. He emphasized the importance of aligning electoral calendars with realistic logistic and security assessments.

Alongside political developments, the security situation remains critical. According to BINUH, more than 1,000 people were killed and over 100 individuals were kidnapped between July and September. Gangs have continued to adapt their tactics, utilizing retaliatory violence against communities, hostage-taking, and intimidation.

Ruiz Massieu reported that the Gang Suppression Force (GSF), backed by the UN Support Office in Haiti (UNSOH), has expanded its footprint in the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area and the Artibonite Department. The Haitian government has also increased funding to the Haitian National Police and the Armed Forces of Haiti.

On the humanitarian front, recent insecurity has displaced over 17,000 people over the past three months, bringing the total number of internally displaced persons in Haiti to nearly 1.5 million, including more than 740,000 children. Ruiz Massieu warned that the country's economy faces an anticipated contraction for a seventh consecutive year, while less than half of this year's Humanitarian Response Plan is currently funded.

Ruiz Massieu called on UN Member States to maintain support and contribute to the Trust Fund for the GSF and the Haiti Peace Dividend Fund to advance security, justice, disarmament, and reintegration efforts.

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