The question concerning Haiti - Security Council, 10216th meeting

The 10216th meeting of the Security Council is called to order. The provisional agenda for this meeting is the question concerning Haiti. The agenda is adopted. In accordance with Rule 37 of the Council's provisional rules of procedure, I invite the representatives of Argentina, Brazil, Haiti, and Mexico to participate in this meeting. It is so decided. In accordance with Rule 39 of the Council's provisional rules of procedure, I invite the following briefers to participate in this meeting: Mr. Carlos Ruiz Masjo, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti; and Mr. Indrika Ratwatte, Acting Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator. It is so decided. The Security Council will now begin its consideration of item two of the agenda. I now give the floor to Mr. Carlos Ruiz Masieu.

Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, distinguished members of the Security Council, thank you very much for convening this urgent meeting on Haiti. I address you today in the aftermath of another appalling atrocity inflicted upon the Haitian population. As this Council is aware, during the night of 23 to 24 August, gangs launched a brutal attack against the commune of Kenscoff, in the hills overlooking Port-au-Prince. This assault claimed the lives of at least 47 persons, including three boys and two girls, left dozens abducted and many others injured. and caused further displacement and suffering. Homes were also set ablaze and local populations seeking refuge from the violence were attacked, including at a church where gang members executed people in the courtyard and killed others as they attempted to escape. It is with profound grief and sadness that I join the Secretary-General in condemning these horrific acts in the strongest possible terms. And I call for the immediate and unconditional release of all persons that were abducted, including women and children. Madam President, this massacre is deeply shocking, but it's not an isolated tragedy. It is the latest in a series of attacks affecting the community of Kentskov since early 2025, and demonstrates the continued capacity and determination of gangs to terrorize the population, expand their influence beyond the capital, and pose a direct challenge to state authority. Patients continue to pay a devastating and intolerable human cost. We've been documenting more than 1,400 people killed and more than 600 injured between April and June 2026 alone. The attacking has generated a new wave of public indignation across all sectors of Haiti society, as well as international partners. We renewed calls to protection of the population, strengthen security institutions and restore public order. These reactions reflect the growing recognition that security is the foundation for progress in all other areas. Madam President, distinguished members, this latest heartbreaking episode is a stark reminder of the urgent need to further strengthen international security to support for Haiti. In this regard, I welcome the decision by the national authorities on 26 August to bring together the Haitian National Police, the armed forces and the GSF, the Gendarmerie de la Republique, to jointly assess these latest developments and coordinate operational plans and deployments on the ground. Notably, it was agreed that the GSF would strengthen its presence in Port-au-Prince area, while the National Security Forces will reinforce with additional elements their deployment in Gesskov. National security institutions cannot be left to confront this threat without adequate support. The GSF represents clearly a critical component of the international response authorized by this Council. Its swift and full deployment is of the essence. Sustained cooperation and coordination among national authorities and with the GSF will remain essential to addressing security, protect communities and restore confidence among Haitians. For far too long, Haitians have lived in fear of being killed, kidnapped, or subjected to sexual violence. Madam President, these latest attacks occur at a critical moment in Haiti's political transition. Without improved security conditions, efforts to strengthen governance, accelerate the political process, and advance electoral preparations will remain severely constrained and vulnerable to setbacks. At the same time, as I emphasized before this Council in last July, And as events in Kentskov have tragically demonstrated, security operations will not be sufficient to produce sustainable security gains. These security efforts must be accompanied by measures to restore state authority, basic services, and economic and social activity in affected communities. This required a coherent approach linking security operations to stabilization and recovery, community violence reduction, the reopening of schools and health facilities and livelihood opportunities. It also requires credible pathways for disengagement from gangs, particularly for children and young people recruited and exploited by gangs. Madam President, distinguished members of the Council, equally important is breaking the cycle of impunity. The perpetrators of the attack on Kanskov, as well as those who finance and enable gang violence, must be held to account. The effective activation of the specialized judicial units mandate to investigate mass crime, sexual violence, financial crimes, including the prompt opening of investigations into the attack will be paramount to strengthen the rule of law and restore public confidence in state institutions. Madam President, expressions of concerns are important and reflect our solidarity clearly with the Haitian people. but they must be accompanied by sustained action. Haiti urgently needs existing commitments to translate into concrete results. The UN, the United Nations as a whole, remains fully committed to supporting Haitian-led efforts to improve security, advance political process, and create the conditions necessary for a peaceful, inclusive, and stable country. I thank you, Madam President.

I thank Mr. Ruiz-Macho for his briefing. I now give the floor to Mr. Enrique Radwate.

Madam President, Excellencies, building on the political and security developments outlined by the SRSG, allow me to focus on the rapidly worsening humanitarian crisis in Haiti. One of the most severe in the Western Hemisphere. Families are fleeing violence, hunger is rising, health services are crumbling. And more than half of Haiti's population of some 6.4 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance. The latest attack on Kenscoff is yet another grim reminder, as the SRSG mentioned, of the suffering of Haitians they face every day. Dozens of people were killed and more than 2,600 forced to flee their homes, many for the second or third time. Over 50 people were reportedly abducted. Families are still searching for missing relatives while communities face widespread trauma, displacement, uncertainty about the fate of their loved ones. And violence is not the only threat. Haiti remains vulnerable for recruiting, for recurring climate shocks and other natural hazards. Hurricane Melissa brought death and destruction to Haiti last year, and now the country is facing another hurricane season, and recent seismic activity in the region is a stark reminder of Haiti's vulnerability to earthquakes. Madam President, nearly 1.5 million people, 12% of Haiti's population, are internally displaced, half of them children. Displacement doubled in just two years and conditions in many displacement sites are squalid. Sites are overcrowded, unsafe, without adequate water and sanitation facilities. Even as more people are displaced in Port-au-Prince metropolitan area and in Artibonite Department, families are returning home in parts of the West and Centre Departments, including to areas where conditions for safe, voluntary and sustainable returns have not yet been established. People must be able to return home safely and voluntarily. Meanwhile, deportations to Haiti continue at scale. In the first eight months of 2026, we have seen almost 200,000 people forcibly returned, a 10% increase compared with the same period last year. Many arrive without resources, documentation, or support networks, and some have especially urgent protection needs, including survivors of sexual violence, pregnant and lactating women, people with disabilities, and unaccompanied and separated children. Madam President, shocking levels of violence and suffering are inflicted on the population, particularly on women, girls and children. Our humanitarian partners have recorded over 5,500 incidents of gender-based violence, or about 30 cases each day, in the first six months of this year alone. Women and girls constitute the vast majority of survivors. Approximately 70% of reported incidents of gender-based violence involve rape. Nearly three quarters of the reported cases involved collective rape. Women and girls are being subject to horrific sexual violence with utter impunity. This must stop. The trauma of survivors on their faces, while access to timely and comprehensive services remain extremely limited. Protecting women and girls from gender-based violence is a collective responsibility. Madam President, for Haiti's children, life is a daily struggle for survival. Half of all displaced people are children, with more than 2.6 million children across the country in need of humanitarian assistance. Hospitals remain overwhelmed, with childhoods cut short by violence, neglect, exploitation, and hunger. According to UNICEF, the number of children recruited and used by armed groups skyrocketed by an estimated 200% in 2025. The connection is clear. When children go hungry, lose access to school, or are separated from their families, they become more vulnerable to recruitment. In some areas, these groups are seen as one of the few sources of food, income, and protection and shelter. Once recruited, Getting out of these can be extraordinarily difficult. Children face threats of retaliation, few safe alternatives, and the stigma within their families and communities. They also become a target of more violence. And education is one of the strongest protections. Yet as the school year starts, attacks on and the use of schools by armed groups continue to disrupt learning. More than 1,600 schools remain closed, affecting 7,500 teachers and depriving more than 240,000 students of learning. Every day out of school leaves children more exposed to violence, exploitation, and recruitment. The children of Haiti deserve a future, not more violence. Madam President, The crisis is also depriving people of reaching essential services. Healthcare, livelihoods, water and sanitation continue to be disrupted by violence and insecurity. Just 10% of health facilities with inpatient capacity remain operational in Port-au-Prince, including only one public hospital. Attacks on healthcare, including ambulances, and the movement restrictions continue to limit access to life-saving services. Madam President, we must also protect the humanitarian space that allows us to reach people in need. As we do in other crises, the UN and our partners operate on the basis of humanitarian principles in all areas of need, irrespective of who controls or influences them, to ensure that lifesaving aid can reach vulnerable people wherever they are. Humanitarians must not be criminalized for engaging with armed groups when necessary to reach people in need or for providing lifesaving medical care to people injured during security operations. There must be a clear and visible distinction between humanitarian and security actors to ensure the safety of aid workers and preserve access to and the trust of communities. At the same time, Ongoing dialogue between humanitarians and security actors, including the gang suppression force through civil military coordination cell shared by OCHA is a critical element and we appreciate the close cooperation that exists. Madam President, behind the figures I outlined are families of uprooted children separated from parents and communities stripped of even the most basic services. Humanitarians are staying and delivering. Together, our humanitarian partners have reached more than 2.4 million people during the first half of this year. But many of the most acute needs are in areas where access depends on sustained engagement with security forces, with armed groups and others, and on the long-term acceptance of humanitarian action by communities. That trust remains fragile. Preserving it requires strict adherence to humanitarian principles, particularly neutrality, impartiality, and independence, and a clear distinction between humanitarian actors and political or security actors. An emergency aid alone cannot change the trajectory of this crisis. Let me close, Madam President, with three asks. First, stop the violence. No child should fall asleep to gunfire. Hospitals, schools and aid workers must never be targets. Secondly, fund the response. Humanitarian organizations remain committed and ready to deliver lifesaving assistance. But surging needs mean we need continued predictable and flexible funding. We thank our largest donors, the United States, the European Commission, the World Bank and Canada for their robust support. And third, tackle the root causes of this crisis. Lasting progress requires efforts including in the realms of security, political stability, and sustained investment in essential services. The people of Haiti deserve more than mere survival. They deserve safety, opportunity, hope for a better future. I thank you.

I thank Mr. Raatvatte for his briefing, and I now give the floor to those council members who wish to make a statement. I now give the floor to the representative of Panama.

Thank you, Madam President. We thank you for convening this meeting, which Panama considers to be important. We also thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General in Haiti, Carlos Ruiz Massieu. and the Acting Assistant Secretary General for Humanitarian Affairs of OCHA, Indrika Rathwate, for their detailed briefings.

Which, of course, were.

Very telling and eloquent in their detailed descriptions of the chaotic situation in Haiti, above all when it comes to the humanitarian side of things and the security aspects. Equally, we express our greetings to the representatives of Haiti, Brazil, Argentina and Mexico who honour us with their presence. Recent events in Kenscoff should be of concern to us, but they should come as no surprise. Indeed, they are yet another warning about the violence that has characterised the situation in Haiti for a long time now. This is not the first time that criminal gangs have brought horror to Kanskov. At the beginning of 2025, gangs killed more than 250 people in barely two months. In July of this year, more than 60 people were killed in the space of only five days. This time, the violent attack in Kenscoff was particularly cruel. It is for that reason, and because of the repeated nature of these massacres, that we requested this meeting together with the sisterly Republic of Colombia and our co-penholder, the United States, and we thank them for their support. We would like to begin this statement by expressing our most heartfelt condolences to the families and the loved ones of the 47 people at least, including women, two girls and three boys who lost their lives during the events that took place on the night of the 23rd of August in Kenskoff. Moreover, we express our profound solidarity with the more than 50 people who were violently kidnapped and also our solidarity with their families who today are facing the anguish of not knowing where their loved ones are as well as our solidarity with the 2,647 people who were forcibly displaced as a result of this most recent attack and who are added to the more than 1.5 million people displaced across the country. Although it has not yet been possible to precisely clarify the facts, various different reports in the media about the atrocities perpetrated by these criminal gangs are already horrifying. Some of the victims were reportedly burned alive in their own homes. while internally displaced persons were killed in a church that was serving as a shelter. According to the testimony of some members of the community, a child around six years old was the victim of a brutal beating. Videos circulated on social media that still need to be verified show bodies lying on the ground.

Covered with white sheets, while people desperately search the area.

Looking for their loved ones without knowing whether they are among the victims. And on top of all of that, there is audio circulating in which a member of one of these gangs is openly and brazenly threatening to kill the people that they are holding hostage. Panama. condemns in the strongest possible terms these dehumanizing acts of cruelty. Panama demands the immediate release of all hostages and calls for those that perpetrated these crimes.

To be brought to justice.

President, faced with the gravity and tragedy of these events, we must above all recall the human dimension of them. The lives behind the numbers of killings, rapes, acts of gender-based and sexual violence against women and girls, the forced recruitment of children and kidnappings. This is the tangible reality that for all too long now millions of Haitians have been facing. A reality that confirms the importance of the Gang Suppression Force. It is time to put the pedal to the metal, to put our foot on the gas and redouble our efforts. It is essential that we accelerate as much as possible the deployment of this force so that once and for all it can determinedly deal with the violence of criminal gangs and so that it can help regain control on the ground. For that reason, it is up to this Council, to the international community and the Standing Group of Partners to make sure that, in addition to the safeguards that have already been provided for to ensure respect for human rights and a response that is sensitive to women and children, to ensure also that the Force has the number of units, the tools and the resources that it needs to fully carry out its mission. The deployment of the force is not an end in and of itself, but rather it is the necessary first step towards restoring the minimum security conditions that will allow for progress in the institutional, economic, political and social recovery of Haiti. An essential part of that process will be creating the conditions, the security conditions needed to hold free, legitimate and transparent elections, to renew the country's institutions and to move towards the restoration of a sustainable democratic order. In this process, BINU also plays an essential role. both in terms of supporting the Haitian authorities and also in promoting dialogue among the various different political actors, which is essential in order to move towards a sustainable democratic transition. Regrettably, the expectation of holding elections in the first half of 2027 from this point of view at least, seems not to be realistic due to the current situation on the ground. It is also essential sooner rather than later to supplement all of these efforts with an effective response in the area of disarmament, dismantling and reintegration DDR. The recommendations presented by the Secretary-General are a good starting point upon which this Council will have to be able to make a decision. Nor can we lose sight of the humanitarian dimension. The figures speak for themselves. and they reflect the gravity of a humanitarian crisis which, paradoxically, is the one that is closest to the United Nations headquarters. President, what happened in Kenskoff should shake us because it is part of a series of events which points to the evolving threat and the continued geographical expansion of gangs into other communities and other departments of Haiti. If this trend is not arrested, the situation will continue to deteriorate and, once again, it will be the most vulnerable, those that don't have weapons, who are the ones who are going to suffer the consequences of it disproportionately. The international response in Haiti is broad and it has many tools at its disposal. However, for this to be turned into concrete results for the Haitian people, political will is needed at the national and international levels. Sufficient resources are needed and above all there must be an urgent response. with the agility and speed required by the gravity of the situation. Thank you very much.

Thank you, representative of Panama, for the statement. And I now give the floor to the representative of Colombia.

Thank you, Madam President. We thank the Presidency for having responded so rapidly to the request by Panama, the United States and Colombia to convene this meeting. I thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Carlos Ruiz Massieu, and Acting Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator, Indrika Ratwatte, for their briefings and their contributions on the ground and to respond to what is happening in Haiti. I also extend my greetings to the Permanent Representatives of Haiti, Brazil, Argentina and Mexico who are joining us at this meeting. and I extend Colombia's most sincere condolences to the Haitian people over the severe wave of violence that the country is experiencing. We express our solidarity with all of the victims and their families. The situation in Haiti, Madam President, has been on the agenda of this Council for more than three decades. However, our response has not been commensurate to the severity of the multi-dimensional crisis that is facing this country. The events on Sunday in Kenskoff are hardly even the most recent example of the violence and the terror that criminal gangs expose the civilian population to on a daily basis. We cannot normalize a weekly massacre in Haiti. That is why we believe that this meeting could not wait until the month of October. Joint security operations in recent months, particularly the first operations with the support of the gang suppression force, have achieved positive initial results that have made it possible to regain control over various parts of Port-au-Prince. However, it is clear that these gains are fragile and that the violence is expanding rapidly into other areas. It is civilians that are paying the highest price for this war. It is unacceptable for my country that the defenceless population is being used by criminal gangs as targets for their illegal actions or in order to gain an advantageous position at the expense of the lives of farmers, as was the case in Kentskoff. Respect for international law, international human rights law is essential and all actors must in particular comply with the principles of necessity, precaution, proportionality and distinction. At a critical and decisive moment for the future of Haiti, Colombia would today like to make five appeals. First of all, The restoration of security is essential in order to restore democratic institutions and the rule of law, and also in order to find a path of development and prosperity for Haiti. The gang suppression force, which was authorized through resolution 2793 of 2025 of this Council, must enjoy our full support in order to consolidate what has recently been achieved and to avoid criminal gangs spreading into other strategic areas.

Colombia calls for this force to be able to reach its full capacity as quickly as possible.

Second, we must urgently intensify the fight against transnational organized crime and its devastating effects for Haiti's security. The illicit trade in arms, human trafficking, forced recruitment, extortion, kidnappings, among other criminal phenomena, are allowing the criminal gangs in Haiti to acquire resources and weapons for their illicit activities, to terrorize the defenseless population, and to have a false sense of impunity. Today, Colombia calls for us to redouble our efforts in the region and with countries

that are committed to a better future for Haiti

so that we can cut the links between Haitian criminal gangs and transnational criminal networks and thus to build upon the brave actions of the Haitian security forces together with the gang suppression force. Third, The fight against the gangs also requires determined action against impunity and corruption, as well as the strengthening of judicial and penitentiary systems. And that includes as well the launch of the specialized judicial units. Gang violence is possible thanks to an enabling environment and to their links with some political and economic actors. This council can and must make more effective use of the sanctions of the 2653 Committee. Fourth, the humanitarian needs are enormous, as we have heard this afternoon. More than half of the population needs assistance, and yet the humanitarian response plan is only 25% funded. We urge donors to redouble their efforts to close the funding gap. Finally, it is important to make progress on community violence reduction and in the implementation of the DDR strategy in order to dismantle criminal structures, to prevent them from reforming, and to restore the presence and authority of the state across the country's territory.

We urge the Haitian authorities to prioritize this strategy

and we urge the international community to mobilize the technical and financial support needed implementation. Madam President, Haiti needs us now more than ever. The decisions that this Council takes in the coming months will be decisive for supporting the Haitian authorities in their efforts to regain control of their territory and to lay the groundwork for credible elections and also to restore democratic institutions and the rule of law. Thank you very much, Madam President.

I thank the representative of Colombia for the statement, and I now give the floor to the representative of United States.

Thank you, Madam President, and thank you to our briefers. The United States condemns in the strongest possible terms the savage attacks by terrorist gangs against the Kenskoff community. We mourn the innocent lives lost and extend our deepest condolences to the victims and their families. This attack, which follows months of ongoing deadly violence, is another reminder of the dire state of Haiti's security crisis. For months, terrorist gangs have murdered civilians, terrorized communities, burned homes, and destroyed families. Now, they're finally saying the quiet part out loud. By their own public statements, gang coalitions seek to prevent Haitian voters from exercising their rights to elect their representative government in a future election. Terrorists cannot take democracy hostage for their own selfish and violent ends. They cannot terrorize from the ends of rifles and from the comforts of toll stations as they rob Haiti of their future. We must protect civilians against these unconscionable acts. We stand firmly with the Haitian authorities who seek to hold the perpetrators accountable, put an end to gang impunity, restore state authority, and to allow the Haitian people to choose their government leaders for themselves. The United States is resolved and as committed as ever to supporting Haitian-led security efforts to end gang terror. This attack is precisely why the UN authorized Gang Suppression Force's mission and mandate matters. The GSF was not created to issue statements from within a compound wall or spend our money while Haiti suffers. With the help of this Council and so many other donor countries, this is a new kind of mission, one with a mandate to actually stop gangsters and end the bloodshed. They must sweep the streets, neutralize the threat, and deliver Haiti back to her people. UN Member States can support this important work towards regional stabilization by enabling troop and police contributing countries of the GSF to deploy as quickly as possible and by contributing to the UN Trust Fund for the GSF. Member States that care about Haiti have a real opportunity to prove it. The GSF needs equipment, resources, and political will to do and finish this job. We call on Security Council members to renew the GSF mandate next month, and we look forward to working with our co-penholder, Panama, on the renewal. We cannot achieve stability through security forces alone. We must break this cycle of violence by pairing credible off-ramps with real opportunities fostered by accountable governance. We call on the international community to help Haiti win the peace for the long haul. By injecting sorely needed investments through capital, infrastructure, and job creation, we can offer opportunities for the next generation of Haitian leaders and provide alternatives to the deadly path of gang violence. The United States stands with Haiti. and will continue to work with Haitians and international partners to end this crisis and restore Haiti's stability. Thank you.

I thank the representative of United States for the statement. And I now give the floor to the representative of Pakistan.

Thank you, Madam President. We appreciate your convening of this session at the request of Panama, Colombia, and the United States. And I also thank SRSG Carlos Massieu and ASG Indrika Ratwatte for their briefings, which basically have apprised this Council yet again about the multidimensional tragedy that continues to unfold in Haiti. We join the Secretary-General in condemning the latest attack by Haitian gangs in Kenscoff, utterly shocking as it was, resulting in loss of precious lives and destruction of property. We note with serious concern the taking of hostages by these gangs, threatening the lives of those held in their captivity. And we extend our deepest condolences and sympathies for the families of the victims and our strong solidarity with Haiti. Regrettably, the situation in Haiti has seen little improvement. The latest incidents incident is a grim and stark reminder of the long drawn precarious security situation faced by the Haitian people with atrocious attacks by gangs targeting civilians and which disproportionately affect women and children. Madam President, responding to the urgent security challenges, last year the Security Council authorized the deployment of a gang suppression force, GSF, to assist the Haitian authorities in overcoming the security crisis. Only last month, the Council was briefed on the various aspects related to GSF, including the factors impeding its full deployment as per the envisaged timelines. In this context, we underscore the need to overcome logistic challenges that GSF continues to face in terms of its full deployment and security operations. timely deployment of GSF with necessary resources is critical to deter the gangs and help instill the much needed sense of security among the population. We also take note of the standing group of partners efforts to mobilize support for the GSF and to assist Haiti in advancing a comprehensive DDR strategy to address the root causes of prolonged violence in the country. President, it is also important to note that unrestricted access of the criminal gangs to modern sophisticated weapons supply remains a constant bane. Needless to emphasize that for a secure environment to take hold, the flow of illegal weapons into Haiti must stop. And this requires effective regional and international efforts to fully implement provisions of 2653 sanctions. And while the international support for Haiti, including from this council, remains crucial, a durable solution requires addressing the underlying multifarious drivers of instability that we were briefed today in this meeting. This would require a Haitian-led and Haitian-owned response aligned with its domestic circumstances. We hope that all political stakeholders in the country would work together with unitary sense of purpose towards this end. In solidarity with Haiti and its people, Pakistan will continue to play a constructive role in supporting all efforts aimed at assisting Haiti achieve long-term stability, progress and prosperity. Thank you.

I thank the representative of Pakistan for the statement and now give the floor to the representative of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Madam President, I have the honour to deliver the statement on behalf of the A3, namely Liberia, Somalia and my own country, the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of BINU, Mr Carlos Ruiz Masieu, and the Acting Assistant Secretary General of OCHA, Mr. Endrick Ratwate. We thank them for their comprehensive briefings. We also welcome the participation of the representatives of Haiti, Brazil, Argentina, and Mexico in this meeting. Madam President, the A3 remain deeply concerned by the security situation in Haiti. Gang violence continues to claim casualties, to displace communities, and to weaken the authority of the state. The attack on the 24th of August in Kenskoff, which resulted in significant civilian casualties, is a tragic reminder of the suffering endured by the Haitian people. We condemn in the strongest terms the violence against civilians, the obstruction of movement on roads and supply routes, and the intimidation of communities. These acts have severely restricted humanitarian access and disrupted the daily lives of the population. In this regard, the A3 welcomes the launch of the operations of the gang suppression force, as well as the efforts of the United Nations security office in Haiti in support of its deployment. The A3 look forward to the continued deployment of the force and hope that it will quickly reach its full operational capacity in accordance with its mandate and in support of the stabilization efforts made by the Haitian government. The A3 emphasized that all security operations including those involving the use of armed drones in populated areas, must be conducted in strict compliance with international law, international human rights law. Clear command structures, effective government oversight and independent and credible mechanisms are essential to investigate allegations of harm done to civilians. However, Security efforts, while they remain essential, will not be sufficient on their own. Sustainable progress will depend on restoring state authority, strengthening of national institutions, restoring essential services and decisive action against illicit weapons flows and crime financing networks. The humanitarian situation in Haiti remains alarming. Reports that nearly 1.5 million people are in urgent need of assistance are extremely worrying. They reflect the very real suffering of a population that has already endured far too much. We called for full respect for the humanitarian principles and for safe and sustainable access to assistance. We're also deeply concerned by the impact of the crisis on children and other vulnerable groups. Their protection must remain at the heart of all response efforts. The A3 are deeply concerned by the acute crisis having to do with detention and particular its impact on children. We call for the effective implementation of the transfer protocol and all four children apprehended during security operations to be referred, to the extent possible, to appropriate child protection and non-custodial measures in accordance with their rights and in their best interests. With regard to the political process, the A3 welcomed the progress made so far, the continued engagement of Haitian stakeholders the efforts made to advance the dialogue and preserve a framework conducive to the peaceful restoration of constitutional order are encouraging. We commend all those who are working constructively towards consensus and stability. We also note the steps taken to advance institutional arrangements and to prepare for credible elections. These efforts, while fragile, demonstrate a commitment to a Haitian-led transition and ownership of the process. The A3 encourage all Haitian stakeholders to build on this momentum to pursue an inclusive dialogue and place the national interests above all other considerations. In conclusion, Madam President, the A3 believe that Haiti needs a comprehensive response. Security, political dialogue, humanitarian action, institutional recovery and accountability must go hand in hand. The progress made at the political level must be preserved and deepened. They offer an important opportunity to restore confidence, to make progress towards restoring the constitutional order and towards creating the conditions for lasting stability. The Haitian people deserve a credible path to peace, the restoration of governance and the effective return of the state. We therefore urge the international community to maintain its commitment, coordination and coherence in its support to Haiti. The A3 reaffirm their solidarity with the Haitian people and their unwavering commitment to Haiti's sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. We stand ready to support efforts to help Haiti overcome this crisis and to restore peace, stability, and constitutional order. I thank you.

I thank the representative of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and I now give the floor to the representative of Greece.

Madam President, thank you for convening this meeting at this critical security juncture for Haiti. I would like to thank SRSG Mathieu and Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator Atwater for their briefings. The horrific events in Keskov last Sunday are a painful reminder of the gravity of the situation in Haiti. We mourn the loss of life and extend our condolences to the families of the victims. Armed gangs are seeking, as we saw, to maintain their grip over communities through violence, intimidation and fear. They must not succeed. The international community will monitor the situation. respond with resolve through efforts to restore security, dismantle criminal networks, and ensure accountability for those responsible. Madam President, the events of last Sunday are regrettably far from isolated. According to B News most recent report on the human rights situation in Haiti published this week, 1,408 people were killed and 656 injured during the second quarter of 2026. Kidnappings have risen sharply, while sexual violence, including rape and gang rape, continues to be used consistently by gang members to terrorize the population. Against this backdrop, I would like to make three points. First, Greece unequivocally condemns the recent massacre in Kenscoff, as well as all human rights abuses perpetrated by armed gangs in Haiti. We call for the immediate and unconditional release of all those kidnapped and stress the imperative of protecting the human rights and fundamental freedoms of the Haitian people. We are particularly concerned by the use of explosive drones as well as by violence involving self-defense groups, which continues to result in civilian casualties. There can be no lasting security without accountability. We therefore join the Secretary-General in calling for those responsible for serious crimes to be brought to justice, including through the recently established specialized judicial units tasked with investigating mass crimes. Second, we reiterate our full support for the GSF ahead of its mandate renewal next month and remain committed to its swift and full deployment. Recent developments have once again demonstrated the urgency of addressing existing security gaps and strengthening the forces capability to operate effectively, including beyond Port-au-Prince. The GSF should be granted all necessary protections and status to fulfill its mandate efficiently, especially given the ferocity of the armed groups. At the same time, we underscore the necessity of strict compliance with human rights due diligence, particularly regarding children who continue to bear a disproportionate burden of the violence and must be treated first and foremost as victims. Third, we call for the full implementation of the arms embargo in order to disrupt the flow of weapons and ammunition to gangs. These strengthened border and port controls, enhanced regional cooperation, and more effective action against illicit trafficking networks are indispensable. At the same time, it is imperative to dismantle the criminal networks in Haiti that link gang leaders with circles of political power. The thorough implementation of the UN sanctions regime is critical in this regard, particularly as the country moves towards elections. Madam President, the violence witnessed in Kherson cannot become the new normal. The people of Haiti deserve security, justice, and the prospect of a democratic future. We therefore call for sustained international support for the GSF and for Haitian efforts to restore security and protect the population. At the same time, we renew our support for MINU in its vital work to uphold human rights and assist the government in the holding of free, fair, and safe elections when security conditions permit. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Greece for the statement, and I now give the floor to the representative of Bahrain.

Madam President, I would like to, first of all, thank Mr. Carlos Ruiz Masieu, Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti, and Mr. Ratwatne, Acting Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs. and Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator, we thank them for their valuable briefings. The Kingdom of Bahrain, Madam President, would like to first express its condemnation of the horrific attack that took place in Kenscoff, which resulted in a number of civilian casualties, including children, and led to the abduction and displacement of dozens of families. And we express our sincere condolences to the families of the victims and to the friendly government and people of Haiti. The alarming escalation of violence in the Republic of Haiti underscores the urgent need on international action to protect civilians, strengthen state institutions, and strengthen the rule of law. Targeting civilians and the use of violence, intimidation, and abduction by the armed groups cannot change the reality within which we need to be working. We stress the protection of civilians must remain at the top of priorities of the international community and must ensure safe and unhindered humanitarian access and it's a shared responsibility of the international community. in order to ensure that we alleviate the suffering of civilians and we preserve their dignity. Madam President, the Kingdom of Bahrain reaffirms its support for the national efforts of the friendly Republic of Haiti aimed at restoring security and stability. And we affirm also our continued support for international efforts, including the Gang Suppression Force, the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti, and the United Nations Support Office in Haiti. in addressing their current challenges. And finally, the Kingdom of Bahrain renews its solidarity with the friendly government and the people of Haiti and reaffirms its readiness to work with all international partners and members of the Security Council in order to support security, peace and stability in Haiti. I thank you.

Thank you, Ambassador of Bahrain, for the statement. And I now give the floor to the representative of China.

President, I thank Special Representative Masure and acting ASG for Humanitarian Affairs, Ratwatne, for their briefings. I welcome the representatives of Haiti, Brazil, Argentina and Mexico to today's meeting. Recently, a serious gang attack occurred in Kenscoff, Haiti, causing heavy civilian casualties. China is deeply saddened by this and expresses our strong condemnation of the gang attack. We mourn the dead and express our profound sympathy to the innocent Haitians affected. This attack is not an isolated incident. It once again underscores that the security situation in Haiti remains dire and that its multiple crises remain difficult to resolve. In view of the current situation, I wish to emphasize the following points. First, military means alone cannot resolve the crisis in Haiti. The continued spread of gang violence is only a manifestation. The underlying causes are Haiti's prolonged political turmoil, governance failures, and social hardship. The latest UN report shows that in response to security operations, gangs are constantly relocating, expanding, and reorganizing. while violent crime in many parts of Haiti is instead becoming increasingly severe. Recent events have once again demonstrated that relying on force to counter violence with violence may instead set in motion a vicious cycle of violence, inflicting further harm on the Haitian people and making an already complex situation even more difficult to manage. The Haitian authorities and the international community should adopt an integrated approach focused on the root causes of the problem while taking necessary action to maintain security and public order, effectively eradicate the political, economic and social conditions that breed violent crime. Second, the protection of civilians must always be the top priority. Multiple reports indicate that for some time, Gang violence in Haiti has caused heavy civilian casualties. While some security operations have also resulted in casualties among persons with no connection to gangs, China is deeply concerned about this. The Haitian authorities should further strengthen the protection of civilians, particularly vulnerable groups such as women and children, and investigate and ensure accountability for relevant violations. Any international security support, including the gang suppression force, should fully respect Haiti's sovereignty, strictly comply with international law, minimize casualties to the greatest extent possible, and promptly report relevant developments to the Council. Third, the sources of weapons and ammunition for Haitian gangs must be resolutely cut off. The persistent flow of illicit weapons and ammunition is an important cause of intensified gang violence in Haiti. Nearly three years after the Council imposed an arms embargo on Haiti, Haitian gangs still possess large quantities of advanced weapons and ammunition, posing a major threat to the security situation. China once again urges the relevant parties to earnestly implement Council resolutions, strengthen border controls and information sharing, and stop at its source the trafficking of weapons and ammunition. The Haitian authorities should also effectively strengthen the regulation of weapons and ammunition, while UNODC, regional organizations and others may continue to assist. The Council and its sanctions committee should strengthen its oversight of relevant progress. Fourth, the key to a long-term solution to the crisis in Haiti lies with Haiti itself. The crisis in Haiti has dragged on for many years, and the international community, including the UN, has long provided security and humanitarian support. Yet Haiti has still been unable to escape the misfortune of the experience and lessons deserve serious reflection by all parties. The Haitian people should not become victims of the country's prolonged governance failures and dysfunction. The Haitian authorities must earnestly assume the primary responsibility for governance. China once again urges the Haitian authorities to accelerate efforts to advance an inclusive political process, strengthen national governance and the rule of law, combat corruption, impunity, and collusion between the police and gangs, and at the same time take actions to improve people's livelihood, create jobs, providing the people, particularly the youth, with the conditions and opportunities to pursue independent development and change their destinies. President, the recent attacks remind us once again that the Haitian people have endured too much for far too long. They need to emerge from fear, turmoil, and crisis. and embrace peace, development and hope. We support the Haitian people in firmly taking their destiny into their own hands and with the support of the international community, achieving lasting peace, stability and prosperity at an early date. China stands ready to work with all parties and continue to play a constructive role towards this end. I thank you, President.

I thank the representative of China for the statement, and I now give the floor to the representative of United Kingdom.

Thank you, President, and I thank Special Representative Ruiz Matheu and Acting Assistant Secretary-General Ratuarte for their briefings, and I welcome the representatives of Haiti, Brazil, Argentina and Mexico to this meeting. The United Kingdom stands with the government and people of Haiti. The violence directed against the commune of Kenscoff is horrific and unacceptable, but this is just one example of a wider pattern of violence. We condemn all perpetrators of gang attacks, including the use of civilians as human shields, hostage-taking, sexual violence, and the deliberate targeting of vulnerable communities. These are not merely criminal acts; they are calculated assaults on communities designed to spread fear, undermine state authority, and further entrench gang control. The people of Haiti deserve to live free from such terror. We are alarmed by reports that gangs have targeted individuals and organisations providing vital humanitarian and medical support to affected communities. This includes Dr Jean-Bil Pape, who has previously briefed this Council and whose efforts have saved countless lives. Humanitarian and medical workers must be protected and allowed to operate safely and without obstruction. President, the security situation in Haiti demonstrates once again the urgency of sustained international action. The United Kingdom supports the efforts of the United States and Panama to renew the authorization for the gang suppression force without delay. We must bring the full weight of this Council's tools to bear, including expanding sanctions designations against gang leaders and those who enable, finance and profit from their activities. We also welcome Germany's announcement that it will provide the necessary airlift support to facilitate the deployment of GSF personnel. The international community must remain united in our support towards the Haitian peace and the government of Haiti. This will be critical to enable their efforts to restore security, reestablish state authority, and protect civilians. It is these conditions that are necessary for political progress, economic recovery and ultimately lasting stability. The people of Haiti have endured far too much. They deserve our solidarity, our resolve and our action. The United Kingdom remains committed to supporting Haiti and working with partners across the Council to confront this crisis. Thank you.

I thank the representative of the United Kingdom for the statement and I now give the floor to the representative of the Russian Federation.

Madam President, we thank Carlos Ruiz Massieu and Drica Raduate for their briefings, and we welcome the participation in the meeting of the representatives of Haiti, Brazil, Argentina, and Mexico. We strongly condemn the brutal attack by members of a local gang on civilians in the suburb of the Haitian capital in Kenscoff. As a result of this tragedy, The already horrifying list of innocent victims of violence in the country received dozens of new names. And what was particularly inhuman is the fact that many of them were killed on the grounds of a local church. As we understand, several dozen civilians were abducted and remain captive by the gangs. The Haitian authorities, bearing the primary responsibility for security in the country, must do their utmost to ensure that the hostages are released and that the criminals are brought to justice. We count on the recently established judicial unit for the investigation of mass crimes to address this incident as well. What happened in Kenscoff is a direct challenge by criminal gangs not only to the Haitian authorities, but also to the efforts of the international community to promote security in the country. It is a signal that organized crime in Haiti does not intend to surrender in the face of the gang suppression force that's being deployed. and will continue to fight for control of territories based on fear, violence and attacks on innocent and unarmed people. We call on the leadership of the non-UN mission to take prompt action to improve the security situation in the capital and beyond. At the same time, we caution against the uncontrolled use of force when conducting operations. It is necessary to take into account the possible consequences for the civilian populations and the widespread involvement of children and adolescents in gangs. Separately, we would like to draw attention to the importance of addressing the long-term problems that are at the origin of the security crisis in Haiti. They include the longstanding ineffectiveness of the local authorities, which resulted in the current constitutional crisis, and the harmful external interference in attempts to shape a political landscape favorable to foreign forces. This also includes the unresolved problems which we raise at every meeting on Haiti, the problem of uncontrolled arms trafficking from the United States, which continue to fuel the criminal activities of gangs. Their leaders do not hesitate to publish on social media videos of their arsenals, including high-calibre weapons and ammunition, and the country of origin of these is not difficult to identify. A recent public opinion survey conducted by the Chatham House shows that Haitians are tired of the protracted problems in their country and do not trust either their own authorities or the international presence in the form of the GSF. And one can understand them and wish them resilience while waiting for the measures being taken by Port-au-Prince and the international community at this time to bring the long-awaited changes for the better. I thank you.

I thank the representative of the Russian Federation for the statement. And I now give the floor to the representative of France.

Thank you, Madam President. I would like to thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Carlos Ruiz Massieu, and the Acting Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Indrika Radhwate, for their briefings. I welcome the presence of the Permanent Representatives of Haiti, as well as Brazil, Argentina and Mexico. Madam President, This latest massacre in Kenskoff in the heights above Port-au-Prince is a tragic reminder of the fate of Haitians who on a daily basis suffer the violence of criminal gangs. It's also a reminder of the ability of these gangs to carry out large-scale attacks. This situation has gone on far too long. Since the beginning of 2024, Nearly 15 000 people have lost their lives in Haiti, the number of displaced persons has increased by 325 per cent and more than half of the population now needs humanitarian assistance. Let us not forget that behind these figures there is the fate of women victims of indescribable sexual violence and the fate of children who are kidnapped, recruited and sacrificed by criminal gangs. This situation requires that we act to respond to the urgent need to restore security and the rule of law in Haiti. This Council has shouldered its responsibilities. A year ago, it created the Gang Suppression Force together with a United Nations Support Office UNSO. Real progress has been seen in the establishment of this new architecture and France commends the engagement of the States that are contributing troops, without which none of this would be possible. The force, however, has not yet been able to fully deploy and it needs to produce the desired result. What we need to do is not change our strategy, but rather to intensify our efforts to implement the strategy that we adopted. The first step will in September be to renew the mandate of the gang suppression force and to continue to support the deployment of its troops and their equipment. France continues to contribute to the trust fund that supports this force. The second step will be the renewal of the sanctions regime in October to stem the flow of arms to criminal gangs and to curb financial flows that support them. For that to have an effect, sanctions need to be extended to individuals that provide political or financial support to the criminal gangs. Madam President, this immediate security response is essential, but it is not enough. If we are to build lasting peace in Haiti, it must be accompanied by a comprehensive approach that aims to strengthen the entire police justice prison chain. France, in this regard, supports the work of the United Nations Integrated Office BINU to combat impunity and to strengthen the specialized judicial units. We also stand ready to work with all of the members of this Council to follow up on the proposals of the Secretary-General regarding the implementation of a DDR programme. Lastly, we recognise the responsibility of the Haitian authorities and we encourage them to redouble their efforts to increase the capacities of the National Police and the Armed Forces and to strengthen control over borders, arms and munitions. It is clearly their responsibility to successfully carry out the political transition process with the organisation of credible elections that is needed to restore the democratic institutions of the country and to put an end to mass human rights violations. Madam President, to conclude, there are many challenges to be overcome, but the solidarity of the international community is real. Let us turn that solidarity into tangible results on the ground so as to give the Haitian population a chance to build a different future. Thank you very much.

I thank the representative of France for the statement and I now give the floor to the representative of Latvia.

Thank you, Madam President. We thank SRSG Carlos Ruiz Masieu and the acting ASG for Humanitarian Affairs and Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator, Inri Inrika Redvate, for their comprehensive briefings. We welcome the representatives of Haiti, Brazil, Mexico and Argentina to this meeting. Madam President, during the previous Council meetings on Haiti, there was a growing sense of shared recognition of the opportunity to bring the security situation in Haiti under greater control and create conditions for the path towards holding elections, notwithstanding the significant remaining risks. The massacre in Kensko, perpetrated by gangs during the night from 23rd to 24th of August, however, serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of security situation in Haiti, how quickly setbacks can emerge and how easily progress can be undermined. These developments underscore the importance of maintaining Haiti firmly on international agenda, sustaining our collective engagement and continuing to support efforts that can translate the current momentum into tangible and lasting progress for the Haitian people. We strongly condemn the cruel gang attacks in Kenscoff that claimed lives, injured civilians, and further traumatized communities, thereby undermining security and stability in Haiti. We express our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims of Kenscoff and demand immediate release of all the hostages held by the gangs. Madam President, We reaffirm our full support for the continued and rapid deployment of the Gang Suppression Force, for its mandate, and for its courageous personnel who carry out the daily mission of restoring security in Haiti under extremely complicated and rapidly changing circumstances on the ground. At the same time, security cannot be sustained through international support alone. We emphasize that the primary responsibility for the security and protection of the Haitian people rests with the Haitian authorities. At previous meetings of this Council, Haitian leadership expressed a strong commitment to restoring order, security, justice, and democratic governance in Haiti. We urge the Haitian Government to fulfill its human rights responsibilities, including reinforcement of the national security strategy and responding in a timely manner to early warning signs of possible gang attacks on civilians. Full transparency and effective coordination between all national and international stakeholders participating in efforts to combat insecurity are required at all times to ensure that communities like Kenscove are not left vulnerable to the armed groups again. Madam President, we also emphasize that security efforts must be continuously accompanied by justice and accountability. We encourage the Haitian authorities to accelerate without delay the full operationalization of the two specialized judicial poles inaugurated to identify, prosecute and hold the perpetrators of the brutal mass crimes, such as those committed at Kenskoff, accountable in accordance with Haitian national and international law. We reiterate that as long as such enablers of the gang violence as corruption and illicit financial flows continue to go unpunished, and weaken the state's effective response to gang violence, the gains achieved through security efforts will not be long lasting. Finally, at this critical moment, we call upon all Haitian stakeholders to place the interest of the Haitian people above political divisions and personal interests, and to work collectively towards a future in which security, Justice, democratic governance and accountability reinforce one another. The Haitian people deserve nothing less. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Latvia for the statement. I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the representative of Denmark. I thank SISG Roos-Macho and Acting Assistant Secretary General Radwoter for their briefings. and I welcome the representatives of Haiti, Brazil, Argentina and Mexico today. Denmark condemns in the strongest terms the heinous gang attack on 23 August in the commune of Kenskour near Port-au-Prince. We are appalled by the abhorrent killing of at least 47 people, including children, some of whom were allegedly burned alive in their homes and places of worship. The attack on Kenscoff has further fueled Haiti's displacement crisis and dire humanitarian situation. We firmly condemn the reported abduction of more than 50 people by gangs during this attack, and we demand the immediate and unconditional release of those held hostage. The Haitian people continue to live in terror as gangs commit the most heinous human rights abuses. According to Bino's quarterly human rights report, more than 1,400 people were killed in Haiti in the last three months, with gangs expanding their attacks into different departments. As we have heard today, the systematic use of rape and sexual violence to punish and terrorize the population, particularly in areas contested by rival gangs, is abhorrent. Mass child recruitment by gangs, forcing them on the front lines to suffer or witness extreme levels of violence is also reprehensible. Against this dire and worsening backdrop, urgently establishing security and rule of law is imperative. Denmark supports the mission of the gang suppression force to counter the gangs and calls for the swift deployment of new contingents on the ground. We reiterate that the GSF must operate with the highest standards of conduct and discipline, with robust oversight and transparency. All national and international efforts aimed at establishing security must prioritize the protection of civilians and be in compliance with international law. Member states must enhance measures to implement the UN sanctions regimes, particularly to cut off Haiti's gang supplies of arms and ammunitions. Ensuring timely accountability for those who committed these appalling crimes and justice for victims is also crucial. We echo the Secretary General's call on the Haitian authorities to ensure that the recently created specialized judicial units investigates such mass crimes. In closing, Denmark reiterates our steadfast support for the people of Haiti. We will continue to work with all partners to support Haiti on its path to peace, security and prosperity. I thank you. I resume my function as President of the Council. And I now give the floor to the representative of Haiti.

Thank you, Madam President. Madam President, I would like to thank the Security Council for convening this emergency meeting at the request of the United States of America, Colombia and Panama in the wake of the massacre and hostage taking perpetrated by gangs in Kenscoff. On behalf of the Government and people of Haiti, I would like to express our gratitude for this show of solidarity towards my country. I also would like to thank Mr. Luis Massieu and Mr. Enrique Retwate for their briefings. I acknowledge the presence of friendly countries here, Brazil, Argentina, and Mexico. The government of Haiti condemns in the strongest possible terms these acts of extreme barbarism. We express our deep solidarity with the victims, their families, and the communities affected by this violence, and we remain mobilized to provide urgent responses commensurate with the security challenges. These attacks constitute a new demonstration of the capacity for violence and terror of armed criminal gangs, despite the considerable efforts made by the Haitian National Police and the Armed Forces of Haiti, which remain fully mobilized on the ground with the support from the Gang Suppression Force. The heinous criminal attack in Kenscove underscores the urgent need for the international community to accelerate the deployment of the GSF to the planned strength of 5,500 personnel as soon as possible and above all to provide it with the full means necessary to carry out its missions alongside the national security forces. Madam President, in the face of the armed aggression perpetrated against the population of Kenskoff by armed criminal groups, the Prime Minister, Mr. Alix Didier Fiseheme, urgently convened the High Council of the National Police, the Armed Forces of Haiti, and the High Command of the Gang Suppression Force. All security forces are placed on high alert, maximum high alert, in order to gradually regain control of the areas occupied by the gangs. And the instructions here are clear: protect, secure and restore the authority of the state. At the same time, the government, through the Ministry of Public Health and Populations, and the Economic and Social Assistance Fund is mobilised to provide assistance to the victims and their families as part of emergency humanitarian assistance. Madam President, in recent years, the Security Council has adopted a number of important decisions on Haiti. in order to accompany the government of Haiti in its efforts to restore security and the authority of the state. The government of Haiti, led by the Prime Minister, Alix Didier Fisseme, is continuing with the same momentum, in particular through the implementation of the P4000 project, which aims to substantially increase the number of personnel and the operational capacities of the Haitian National Police. In addition, the Government is continuing to strengthen the Armed Forces of Haiti through the recruitment and training of new military personnel who will contribute to the security. Today, we need greater synergy at the international level to support the government in restoring security, which is an essential condition in order to organize the upcoming elections in the country. In this regard, our actions must be directed towards accelerating the deployment of the gang suppression force. And in this context, we thank Chad, Mongolia, and Cote d'Ivoire, which have already signed agreements with Haiti to join the GSF. And steps are underway in this direction with Jamaica, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Guatemala. We call on the members of international community to strengthen their contribution to upholding and implementing of the arms embargo imposed by the Security Council sanctions committee resolution 2653 on Haiti in order to stem the flow of arms and ammunitions which fuel the violence of criminal gangs. Madam President, the urgency of the situation calls for a rapid, coordinated, and resolute response. Haiti continues to count on the support of its partners in the international community to accompany it in its efforts to restore lasting security, to fully restore the authority of the state, and to create the conditions necessary for the holding of elections. I thank you for your attention.

I thank the representative of Haiti for the statement, and I now give the floor to the representative of Brazil.

Madam President, my delegation commends Colombia, Panama, and the United States for their initiative in calling this urgent meeting. I thank SRSG Luis Masieu and Acting SG Ratwatte for their briefings. Brazil condemns in the strongest terms the latest and outrageous attack in Kenscoff. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and express our full sympathy with the people of Haiti. This tragic episode is yet another vivid reminder of the severity of the security crisis affecting the country. The international community must act with resolve, responsibility and solidarity. In the last decades, Brazil has supported and meaningfully contributed to improving Haiti's security situation. We did so because we know that there will be no stability and sustainable development without security and effectively addressing the multifaceted root causes of insecurity. We remain steadfast in our support for the central role of the United Nations in Haiti. Brazil commends current international efforts to assist the country in restoring security and strengthening state institutions. The current situation indicates that recent gains remain partial and fragile as armed groups continue to have access to large caliber weapons and retain significant operational capabilities. We call on this council to consider measures to enforce and enhance the arms embargo in place. We follow with attention the progress made in the deployment of the gang suppression force and the establishment of UNSO. Above all, focus should be placed on supporting the Haitian national police with a view to securing national ownership and the long-term sustainability of international cooperation. Arrangements that allow for a more effective allocation of national security resources to the areas most affected by violence deserve careful consideration. Security measures are indispensable, as we know, but they are clearly insufficient. Brazil has consistently maintained that such measures must advance in parallel with initiatives aimed at strengthening key state institutions and expanding economic opportunities. The Haitian security crisis should not be understood solely through a security lens. It is increasingly characterized by criminal economies sustained through the control of strategic logistical nodes and extortion revenues. Changing these dynamics requires a combination of law enforcement, institutional strengthening, community resilience, and economic alternatives, particularly for young people vulnerable to recruitment by armed groups. In this regard, we commend recent initiatives to support disarmament, demobilization and reintegration, as well as violence reduction at the community level. The establishment of multi-donor funding mechanisms and the initial contributions from the Peacebuilding Fund create an opportunity to enhance international support for programs that open opportunities for a different life for many youngsters. Properly managing the domestic political process and restoring constitutional normalcy through elections are also key. While the definition of the electoral calendar belongs to the Haitian authorities, international assistance should focus on supporting the quality, credibility, and inclusiveness of the process. It is important to secure among other conditions, the adequate resourcing of voter registration centers, the regular and timely publication by the Provisional Electoral Council of disaggregated registration data, the effective reopening of key transportation corridors, and obviously the security of voters and polling stations. Madam President, Brazil remains committed to working with Haiti, the United Nations, and all interested stakeholders for the benefit of the Haitian people. I thank you.

I thank the representative of Brazil for the statement, and I now give the floor to the representative of Argentina.

Good afternoon, colleagues, Madam President. The Argentine Republic thanks Denmark, Colombia, the United States and Panama for convening this urgent meeting of the Security Council on Haiti, and we also thank the briefers. We condemn the attack perpetrated by armed gangs in Kenscoff during the night of 23 to 24 August, which, according to the United Nations, left at least 47 people dead and many others kidnapped. which is added to the more than 3,000 deaths so far in 2026, a deeply worrying number. We express our condolences to the people and government of Haiti, and we ask for those responsible to be brought to justice. This tragedy is not an isolated incident. It is the most recent manifestation of a prolonged crisis. In addition to the deaths, This is also reflected in the daily lives of millions of individuals without adequate access to food, healthcare services, drinking water, education and decent work, and especially in the thousands of children and young people deprived of opportunities, many of whom are recruited or coerced by armed groups. The economic dimension is also worrying. The Haitian economy contracted in 2025 for the seventh year in a row. Insecurity is disrupting trade, deterring investment and destroying jobs. Without security, there can be no development, but without development, inclusion and opportunities, no lasting security, no true security can be achieved either. The situation is also being aggravated by Haiti's vulnerability to natural disasters. The international community is well aware of Haiti's painful past and also knows what its future will be if the current course is not changed. Deaths and displacements will continue and opportunities will continue to disappear. In that regard, Argentina values the progress represented by the resolutions on the sanctions regime, on the multilateral security support mission, the resolution that established the gang suppression force, and this year's resolution that renewed the mandate of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti. These decisions were and remain necessary as part of the joint effort to reverse this violence. The response needs to be comprehensive and combine the restoration of security and the rule of law with the strengthening of institutions, and it must also be led by Haitians themselves in full respect for their sovereignty and in respect for their priorities. A lot of work still needs to be done to achieve this goal, but we are certain that everyone here present wants to see how the resolutions adopted by this Council and the efforts of the Organization in general can be translated into a tangible improvement for the security and well-being of the Haitian people. We believe, in addition, that this Council should carry out regular monitoring of the implementation of these decisions and that it should have the political will for them to enjoy the resources and the mandate that the gravity of the situation requires. Argentina has historically supported the Haitian people through its extensive participation in MINUSTAH. Currently, our country is closely following the situation in Haiti and is supporting the United Nations efforts, as well as the efforts of regional organizations and the Haitian authorities to find a solution. In that regard, we reaffirm our commitment to the success of the Gang Suppression Force mission. We hope that it will be fully functional as soon as possible. Our readiness to contribute to that force according to our capabilities and the needs of the standing group of partners remains the case. Moreover, we commit our support for the Haitian authorities in the exercise of their political and institutional responsibilities and with the aid of this Council and the competent organs of the United Nations being able to achieve the appropriate framework for bringing about security, carrying out national elections and so that this can give rise to a new time of peace, democracy, development and sustained growth. Thank you very much.

Thank the representative of Argentina for the statement and I now give the floor to the representative of Mexico.

Thank you very much, Madam President. We are grateful for the convening of this emergency meeting by the United States, Colombia and Panama, and we take note with concern of the briefings by the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Haiti, Carlos Ruiz Massieu, and the Acting Assistant Secretary-General and Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator, Mr. Enrique Rato. Episodes such as the one that took place last week in the mountain commune of Kenscoff in the southeast of Port-au-Prince are unacceptable. Mexico expresses its most heartfelt condolences over the loss of 47 lives and condemns the illegal deprivation of liberty that is causing suffering for the victims, their families and Haitian society. The expansion of violence reflects the gravity of the internal Haitian security situation and its severe impact on the population, in particular for the most vulnerable. This tragedy comes within a complex set of circumstances that requires a sustained and coordinated response by the international community and which constitutes an urgent reminder that the multilateral response cannot be limited to simply containing isolated episodes and it must have a long-term vision. To that end, it is essential that international cooperation and national capacities be strengthened to guarantee the protection of the Haitian population, to address the humanitarian crisis, to hold elections and to create the best possible conditions for the provision of essential services. Mexico considers that it is essential for security actions to be accompanied by efforts to address the causes of violence, which this year has claimed the lives of more than 3,050 people. We urge the Security Council to promote a disarmament, demobilization and reintegration programme that is led by Haiti, which is based on the realities on the ground, which incorporates lessons learned, and which involves the affected communities. The Haitian population should not merely be the recipient of stabilisation measures, it also must be recognised as an actor and decision maker in its own solutions, not based on a mindset of emergency, but rather based on preventing violence, supported and recognised by what has been built. Madam President, violence The internal displacement of communities, humanitarian needs and the vulnerability of women and children and weak institutions are things that are mutually reinforcing and therefore the response needs to be comprehensive and needs to help strengthen national institutions and join up efforts in the areas of security, justice, humanitarian assistance, the reduction of violence and development while also guaranteeing the rule of law. Mexico reiterates its support for the work of BINU. Its accompaniment is conducive to the coordination and coherence of international efforts, facilitates inclusive inter-Haitian dialogue and supports community violence reduction initiatives. Mexico reiterates that building peace in Haiti must be a gradual but at the same time a solid process. There are no shortcuts given the accumulated structural challenges and anyone offering shortcuts is ignorant of the country's reality. The international community has the duty to protect the Haitian civilian population and it has the responsibility to stand alongside its people but that presence only makes sense if it's strengthens and does not replace national institutions and capacities. What is needed is to build peace and not to perpetuate dependence. Mexico will continue to contribute to the training of a new group of soldiers for the Haitian armed forces as part of our efforts to support the development of national security capacities at a time of internal insecurity. We call for progress on internal political processes, including general elections, and we reiterate our solidarity with the victims and their families, as well as our solidarity with and historic respect, historic support for the Haitian people. Thank you very much.

Thank you, Ambassador Mexico, for the statement. There are no more names inscribed on the list of speakers. Before adjourning the meeting, as this is the last scheduled meeting of the Council for the month of August, I would like to express the sincere appreciation of the delegation of Denmark to the members of the Council and to the Secretariat of the Council for all the support they have given us. In Danish, Skat means treasure, and you surely are a treasure of knowledge and support for the Presidency of the Council. August has been a busy month and one in which we rallied to consensus on several important issues. We could not have done it alone and without the hard work, support and positive contributions of every delegation and the representatives of the Secretariat, including the technical support team, conference service officers, interpreters, translators, verbatim reporters and security staff. As we end our presidency, I know I speak on behalf of the Council in wishing the delegation of France good luck in the month of September. The meeting is adjourned.