Statement of Latvia by H.E. Amb. Sanita Pavļuta-Deslandes at the UNSC briefing on the situation in Haiti
19 October 2026
Madam President,
I would also like to thank the SRSG Carlos Ruiz Massieu, Special representative for the GSF, Jack Christofides and the Head of UNSOH, Daniela Kroslak, for their comprehensive briefings.
As our briefers underlined, the security situation in Haiti remains deeply alarming. The continued killings, retaliations, kidnappings, widespread sexual violence with high numbers of collective rape, extortion, recruitment of children and other serious crimes committed by armed groups must be unequivocally condemned. This cycle of grave human rights violations must be stopped.
We note that despite expanding deployment and operations by GSF, significant security improvements are yet to bring results. Brutal retaliations carried out by gangs, which continue to assert their presence, are a matter of a very serious concern and yesterday’s ambush of soldiers of El Salvador is a shocking reminder. Capacity building of Haitian authorities to maintain control over security in territories where gains have been made, is a challenge that needs to be urgently addressed as well.
We demand the immediate and unconditional release of all children recruited by the gangs. The recruitment and use of children by armed groups constitutes a grave violation of international human rights law. We call on Haitian authorities to hold accountable all those responsible for these crimes.
We underscore the utmost importance of continuing to make progress towards the full operationalization of the two specialized judicial poles established to address mass crimes in Haiti. Strengthening the capacity of the Haitian justice system to investigate and prosecute these crimes is essential to ensuring accountability for perpetrators, combating impunity and restoring public confidence in state institutions.
Madam President,
The security crisis must not be allowed to extinguish the democratic aspirations of the Haitian people. Despite the considerable challenges, preparations for elections must continue with determination. Advancing voter registration, strengthening electoral institutions and ensuring that Haitians can participate freely and safely in the political process are essential steps towards restoring constitutional order and establishing legitimate democratic governance.
We take note on the progress in achieving gender balance in voter registration, which is a notable development towards free, fair and inclusive elections.
We also recognize that insecurity presents serious obstacles, particularly for people living in gang-controlled areas and for those who face threats, displacement or restricted access to public services. These challenges must be addressed through practical security arrangements, adequate resources and close coordination among Haitian authorities, electoral institutions and the international partners. Security concerns cannot be ignored, but neither should they become a ground for indefinite delay. We therefore encourage Haitian authorities to work decisively to establish an electoral calendar that is realistic and communicated transparently to the Haitian population.
Madam President,
Progress on the political track depends on tangible improvements in security. We therefore underline the need to complete the deployment of the GSF and ensure its full operational capacity. We commend the work of UNSOH in support of GSF and express our appreciation to member states contributing troops and assets to the security in Haiti. Building the capacity to confront armed gangs, protect civilians and create the conditions for humanitarian assistance to reach those in need and for electoral preparations to advance safely, is crucial for further progress.
As armed gangs expand beyond the capital and perpetrate outrageous violence in previously peaceful rural areas, we welcome the decision to strengthen the presence of the GSF outside the capital, especially in the Artibonite region.
Finally, we commend Haitian authorities for establishing the Haiti Peace Dividends Trust Fund, which constitutes an important milestone in supporting peacebuilding, reducing community violence and addressing the underlying conditions that fuel instability.
We will continue to support BINUH in its efforts to assist Haitian authorities in advancing key reforms and addressing the fundamental needs for stabilization in Haiti. This includes supporting the work on the national DDR program, as well as promoting preventative initiatives with women, girls and youth to reduce community violence. Creating safe and viable opportunities for these groups is essential to address origins of violence and laying foundations for a peaceful and secure future for Haiti’s next generation. The Haitian people deserve to finally live in dignity and security.
I thank you.