The United States has decided to prolong its ban on flights to Port-au-Prince, Haiti’s capital, until September 8 due to the increasing gang violence in the region. The Federal Aviation Administration made this announcement following a series of violent incidents involving gangs targeting commercial planes. William O’Neill, the U.N. human rights expert on Haiti, expressed concern about the worsening situation, highlighting the suffering and despair faced by the population. Despite efforts by the national police and a U.N.-backed multinational force led by Kenya, the risk of the capital falling under gang control remains high. These criminal groups have spread beyond the capital, committing heinous acts such as killings, rapes, and arson in various parts of the country.
Following the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021, the gangs have gained significant power, with estimates suggesting they now control a large portion of the capital. O’Neill revealed that over a million people have been displaced, facing hunger and sexual violence in makeshift camps with no safe haven. He called on Haitian authorities to address the issues of impunity and corruption, which fuel the gang activities. Additionally, he emphasized the need to strengthen the police force and proposed a substantial reinforcement of the multinational police force to combat the gangs effectively.
U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres has suggested that the logistics and equipment for the multinational force be funded from the U.N. budget rather than relying on voluntary contributions. This support would enable the force to better control and dismantle the criminal organizations. O’Neill also stressed the importance of providing the police with necessary resources such as helicopters, ground vehicles, night vision goggles, and body armor to enhance their effectiveness in combating the escalating gang violence in Haiti.
