The United Nations Security Council is set to convene on August 28, 2025, to deliberate on a significant draft resolution proposed by the United States and Panama. This resolution aims to establish a dedicated "gang suppression force" and a complementary U.N. Support Office to bolster international efforts against the escalating gang violence in Haiti.
The proposed initiative seeks to address the acknowledged shortcomings of the current U.N.-backed mission, which has been hampered by insufficient resources and manpower. U.S. Ambassador to the U.N., Dorothy Shea, emphasized the critical need for a mission capable of "hold territory, secure infrastructure, and complement the Haitian National Police." The envisioned U.N. Support Office would provide essential logistical assistance on the ground, enhancing the operational capacity and sustainability of the mission.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has consistently advocated for increased material support and stricter enforcement of the arms embargo against Haitian gangs. He has specifically highlighted that a substantial amount of weaponry used by these groups is trafficked from Florida, fueling the ongoing violence and instability. The humanitarian crisis in Haiti has reached severe levels, with over 1.3 million individuals displaced due to escalating gang violence. Disturbingly, there has been a reported 700% surge in child recruitment by gangs in the first three months of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, with children now estimated to constitute approximately 50% of gang members.
In response to the deteriorating security situation, Haiti's government declared a three-month state of emergency in August 2025 for the West, Artibonite, and Center departments. This measure is intended to combat rampant insecurity and address the severe agricultural and food crisis exacerbated by gang activities. The Artibonite Valley, a crucial agricultural region, has experienced significant disruptions to farming due to extortion and intimidation, leading to reduced crop yields and inaccessible farmland. The proposed U.N. mission is designed as a critical support mechanism for the Haitian National Police and other international partners, aiming to restore stability and security. The Security Council's deliberations in the coming weeks are expected to mark a significant juncture in the international community's commitment to addressing Haiti's complex challenges. Reports indicate that over 5,600 deaths were attributed to gang violence in 2024 alone, a stark increase from the previous year.