UN Human Rights Office extends assistance offer to Haiti

Geneva.- The UN Human Rights Council passed a resolution yesterday urging the UN Office for Human Rights to provide technical assistance to the Government of Haiti in response to the escalating violence within the country.

This decision follows a request from the UN Office for Human Rights for Haitian authorities to swiftly form a transitional government to address the rising levels of gang violence. High Commissioner Volker Türk presented a new report highlighting the intensification of attacks by criminal gangs targeting police stations, prisons, and other facilities in an attempt to overthrow the government.

The surge in violence has had devastating consequences for Haiti’s population, with at least 1,434 people killed and 797 injured in gang-related attacks between January 1 and March 20, according to Türk’s office. The report also highlights unprecedented levels of sexual violence, particularly against women and girls, who face increased risk as they are displaced from their homes and communities.

Türk emphasized the urgent need to establish corridors for vital humanitarian aid, crucial for the 5.5 million Haitians, including 3 million children, who depend on it. However, the deployment of the multinational mission approved by the UN Security Council last October, essential to halt the violence, is currently stalled due to logistical issues.

Regarding the recruitment of minors by gangs, Türk stressed the importance of their reintegration into society through long-term psychosocial support programs, quality education, and healthcare. He called on the international community to take stronger measures to prevent the illicit flow of small arms, light weapons, and ammunition into Haiti.

The Organization of American States (OAS) also approved a resolution urging member countries to support Haiti’s security forces in restoring peace and stability amidst the violence. This resolution comes after continued clashes between the Haitian National Police and armed gangs, highlighting the urgent need for intervention to address the crisis.

Source: EFE