Statement by the Republic of Slovenia at the briefing on the question concerning Haiti, Report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti

Thank you very much, Madam President.

I would like to extend my gratitude to the SRSG and Head of BINUH Ms. Salvador, Executive Director of UNICEF Ms. Russell and Ms. Waly, Executive Director of UNODC for today’s briefings.

I would also like to welcome H.E. Mr. Álvarez to today’s briefing. 

We express our deepest appreciation for the invaluable work of the UN Country Team amidst the challenging environment in Haiti.

Madam President,

In the three months since the last briefing, Haiti has continued to experience a concerning deterioration in its security, political, human rights, and humanitarian situation.

After what has been described as the most violent trimester in two years, Haiti once again finds itself trapped in an endless pit of human suffering.

Let me begin by condemning, in the strongest possible terms, the coordinated gang attacks against state institutions and critical infrastructure.

These attacks have not only severely challenged the state’s authority but also fostered unprecedented chaos and terror within the civilian population, preventing their access to basic health services and education.

Madam President,

We recognize the commendable efforts of the Haitian National Police, who, despite facing significant challenges, have persisted in protecting critical and strategic locations, including the international airport.

However, the Haitian National Police simply cannot address the dire security situation alone.

In line with this we echo, Secretary-General’s call for the swift deployment of the Multinational Security Support mission.

We also call for the enhancement of the Haitian criminal justice sector, including the penitentiary system, to ensure accountability for human rights violations and abuses, and effectively combat impunity.

Together with the effective implementation of the arms embargo to stem the flow of illicit arms and ammunition, this is imperative for the success of the efforts of the Haitian National Police and the MSS in addressing the security challenges.

Madam President,

It is critical that the progress is made simultaneously on both security and political fronts.

In this regard, we urge all actors to hold nationwide dialogue and cooperate with the goal of achieving peace in Haiti.

We take note of the recent formal establishment of the Transitional Presidential Council and the appointment of its members, and encourage its swift operationalization, including action plan for short-term security.     

We join the Secretary-General in underscoring the importance of ensuring the representation of Haitian women in transitional governance arrangements and their active participation in the ongoing political dialogue.

We also call on the prompt appointment of an Interim Prime Minister and the selection of a Provisional Electoral Council.

Let me be clear: The restoration of democratic institutions in accordance with the rule of law and through peaceful, credible, and participatory elections is the only path towards a stable and secure Haiti. 

Finally, Madam President, I would like to address what is perhaps the most concerning aspect.        

The human rights abuses and the humanitarian situation leaves Haitians in a desperate need for an immediate return to stability and security.

We condemn, in the strongest possible terms, any sexual and gender-based violence in particular by armed groups, women and girls suffering the most. We express alarm over the increased recruitment and use of children for perpetration of crimes.

In addition to unprecedented levels of targeted killings, collective rapes, and kidnappings, among other human rights abuses, gangs are also restricting access to markets and basic services, exacerbating acute food insecurity, child malnutrition and disease.

It is once again women and children who bear the brunt of these conditions.

To this end, we again urge an immediate end to the blockade of the seaport and the removal of the roadblocks to ensure unhindered and safe access for humanitarian aid without any preconditions.

Humanitarian access must be unimpeded and sustained, and humanitarian personnel must be kept safe.

We also call on the international community to intensify its support for humanitarian, development, and violence reduction efforts in Haiti.

The Haitian population can count on Slovenia’s continued engagement in this regard.

I thank you.

Recent Statements