The United Nations Security Council is concerned about the deteriorating situation in Haiti, where armed gangs are committing acts of violence. The Council welcomed the Secretary-General’s call for an international force in Haiti to restore order. In a statement issued Monday, the Council condemned the escalating violence, criminal activities and human rights violations that are disrupting peace, stability and security in the region.
Kidnappings, sexual violence, human trafficking, arbitrary executions, and the enrollment of children in armed gangs are of particular concern, the Council said, calling for the perpetrators of these crimes to be brought to justice.
The Council also discussed its role in the sanctions regime in place since last October, which targets gang leaders, but which currently affects only one person, Jimmy Cherizier, nicknamed “Barbecue”.
Council members discussed the latest report by Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who reiterated the call for a specialized international armed force to be sent to Haiti to help the Haitian police restore order.