The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) emphasized on Wednesday that Haitians should receive refugee protection and not be repatriated to their country, where gangs reign terror.
In response to the chaotic situation, particularly in the capital, Port-au-Prince, and concerns about a potential mass exodus, the UNHCR has anticipated and updated directives to ensure the protection of vulnerable Haitians.
Elizabeth Tan, head of UNHCR’s international protection division, stated, “The lives, security, and freedom of Haitians are threatened by the growing gang violence and human rights violations.”
Ariel Henry, currently handling affairs, acknowledged the recent surge in gang violence in Haiti and the need for the establishment of a transitional presidential council following his announced resignation.
The UNHCR stressed the imperative for countries to grant Haitians international refugee protection status and urged all states not to forcibly return individuals to Haiti, including those whose asylum requests were rejected.
The agency highlighted that various Haitian groups, including political activists, journalists, judges, and lawyers combating corruption and crime, could benefit from the 1951 Refugee Convention. It also underscored the protection extended by the 1984 Cartagena Declaration to individuals affected by widespread violence in gang-afflicted areas.
Expressing concern over Haitians embarking on perilous journeys, including by sea, the UNHCR cautioned against this trend.
Meanwhile, negotiations to form transitional authorities progressed in Haiti on Wednesday, amidst ongoing evacuations of US citizens due to gang-related insecurity. Armed gangs have terrorized Port-au-Prince in recent weeks, prompting Prime Minister Ariel Henry’s resignation and the planned establishment of a transitional presidential council.
The country has faced instability since President Jovenel Moïse’s assassination in 2021, compounded by the absence of elections since 2016. The new authorities, composed of representatives from political parties and civil society, are tasked with electing an interim prime minister and forming an inclusive government to address the persistent insecurity, possibly with assistance from an international mission.
Source: AFP AGENCY