Antony Blinken Lands in Haiti to Bolster US Support Against Gang Violence

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Haiti on Thursday to reaffirm the US government's commitment to a multinational mission aimed at combating gang violence and pushing for long-awaited general elections. The mission, led by 400 Kenyan police officers, is backed by the UN but faces concerns over insufficient funding and equipment.

UN Peacekeeping Operation Consideration

Brian Nichols, US Assistant Secretary for Western Hemisphere Affairs, mentioned that the US is considering a UN peacekeeping operation to secure the necessary resources to fight gangs controlling 80% of Haiti's capital. This consideration comes as Haiti's government extended a state of emergency nationwide, initially imposed in the capital and surrounding areas earlier this year to curb violence.

Blinken's visit includes meetings with Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille, a nine-member transitional presidential council formed after former Prime Minister Ariel Henry resigned, and unspecified political party leaders. He will also meet with the head of the multinational mission and the chief of Haiti's National Police.

Focus on Security and Elections

"Our goal is to recognise the positive progress made toward improving security and encourage efforts to appoint the provisional electoral council so Haiti can move toward elections," Nichols told reporters ahead of Blinken's trip. Haiti last held elections in 2016, with gang violence and political upheaval cited as reasons for delays in holding new ones.

In July 2021, former President Jovenel Moïse was assassinated, leading to a surge in gang violence. In February, gangs launched coordinated attacks on police stations and the main international airport, which remained closed for nearly three months. They also stormed Haiti's two largest prisons, releasing more than 4,000 inmates.

Increased Patrols and Operations

The arrival of Kenyan police in late June has led to a significant increase in patrols and operations aimed at restoring security and normalcy in Haiti. "We are seeing a dramatic increase in patrols and operations designed to restore security and sense of normalcy in Haiti," Nichols said. However, gangs continue to attack communities around Port-au-Prince.

After his meetings in Haiti, Blinken is scheduled to fly to the Dominican Republic on Thursday night. On Friday, he will meet with Dominican President Luis Abinader and other officials before returning to the US later that day. Nichols stated that discussions with Abinader will focus on strengthening economic ties, advancing values such as respect for human and labour rights, and promoting increased security in the region, particularly in Haiti.

Dominican Republic Relations

Abinader has faced criticism for his administration's treatment of Haitian migrants and those born in the Dominican Republic to Haitian parents. He has also largely closed airspace with Haiti and is constructing a wall between the two nations.

The situation remains tense as efforts continue to stabilise Haiti through international cooperation and support. The US aims to bolster these efforts by addressing funding issues and ensuring adequate resources for peacekeeping missions.