A Critical Juncture for Haiti: Evaluating the Proposed Transition from MSS to a UN-Backed Gang Suppression Force
For over two years, Haiti has urgently appealed for international assistance to combat escalating criminal violence. Now, a pivotal moment has arrived with a draft UN resolution, spearheaded by the United States and Panama, proposing a significant shift in the international security presence: transitioning the current Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission into a more robust, UN-authorized Gang Suppression Force (GSF). This proposed evolution, stemming from recommendations by the UN Secretary-General in February 2025, demands careful scrutiny to ensure it addresses the shortcomings of the current mission and genuinely contributes to a sustainable solution for Haiti’s security crisis.
From Limited Support to Independent Action: A Force Multiplier or a Repeat of Past Failures?
The proposed GSF represents a ample increase in capacity compared to the existing MSS. While the MSS comprises roughly 1,000 personnel, primarily police, operating in support of the Haitian National Police, the GSF is envisioned to deploy up to 5,500 police, military, and civilian personnel. Critically, the GSF would be authorized to operate independently or alongside Haitian law enforcement.This expanded mandate and increased personnel represent a potential force multiplier, offering the possibility of a more proactive and impactful response to the gangs that have paralyzed the nation.
However, this potential hinges on addressing the critical vulnerabilities that have plagued the MSS. Human Rights Watch rightly cautions that insufficient funding, inadequate staffing, and a lack of robust human rights safeguards risk replicating the failures of the current mission. A predictable and sustained funding stream, beyond ad-hoc contributions, is paramount. The MSS has been hampered by gaps in operational costs and personnel salaries, severely limiting its effectiveness. Binding commitments from member states for troop contributions are essential to ensure the GSF is fully staffed and capable of confronting Haiti’s powerful criminal groups.
The Role of UNSOH: Coordination and Logistical Backbone
To support the GSF, a new UN Support Office in Haiti (UNSOH) is proposed. This office will be crucial, not only in providing logistical and technical assistance to the GSF itself, but also in coordinating efforts with existing actors on the ground.This includes the UN Integrated Office in Haiti, the Haitian National Police, the Haitian armed forces, and the Organization of American States. Effective coordination is vital to avoid duplication of effort and ensure a unified approach to security and stabilization. Crucially, the UNSOH must be adequately resourced through the UN’s system of assessed contributions – mandatory payments from member states – to guarantee its operational effectiveness.
Human Rights at the Core: Vetting, Training, and Accountability
A significant security deployment necessitates an unwavering commitment to human rights. The GSF must adhere to the highest UN standards, beginning with rigorous vetting of all personnel before deployment. Comprehensive human rights training is equally vital, covering critical areas such as the use of force, gender-based violence, child protection, and the prevention of sexual exploitation. This training must be ongoing throughout the mission, not a one-time event.
Moreover, all personnel must fully comply with the UN Human Rights Due Diligence policy, and actively avoid any engagement with units or individuals credibly implicated in human rights abuses or collusion with criminal organizations.building trust with the Haitian population is impossible without demonstrable respect for their rights.
The positive steps taken by the MSS in establishing monitoring and complaint mechanisms,implementing population protection guidelines,and launching a 24/7 reporting hotline must be integrated into the GSF’s operations. Though, these measures are insufficient without a truly independent accountability mechanism, incorporating the active participation of Haitian civil society and community-based groups. This independent oversight is essential to ensure transparency and address any allegations of misconduct.
Strengthening Haitian justice Systems: Beyond Security Operations
Security interventions alone are insufficient. The GSF’s mandate must include collaboration with the specialized judicial units established by Haitian authorities to prosecute serious crimes, including massacres, sexual violence, and other grave human rights abuses. The UN and its agencies should prioritize supporting the rapid operationalization of these units, ensuring timely and effective prosecutions. Addressing impunity is critical to breaking the cycle of violence and fostering long-term stability.
A Critical moment Demands a Comprehensive Response
As noted by cotrino, two years have passed since Haiti first requested international assistance, and the response thus far has been inadequate. The transition from MSS to GSF presents a crucial opportunity to rectify this.Though, success is not guaranteed.A robust, well-funded, and human rights-focused GSF, operating in close coordination with Haitian authorities and civil society, is essential. Failure to address
