Delivered by the Permanent Representative of Estonia to the UN, H.E. Mr Sven Jürgenson
Thank you, Mr President,
I would like to thank Special Representative of the Secretary General Helen La Lime and Mr Jacques Letang for their briefings.
Madam President,
Estonia is concerned about the impact of the COVID-19 virus in Haiti where the humanitarian situation is already serious. We welcome measures taken by the government of Haiti to combat the pandemic, especially the formation of the Multisectoral Commission. However, more action has to be taken and a coordinated national response to the pandemic is needed. The key elements to control the spread of the virus in Haiti are first, to raise public awareness of COVID-19 and second, to address the dire situation in prisons and detention centres.
It is distressful that developments with the political process have been marginal. More effort and responsibility is required to solve the current political impasse. The people of Haiti deserve a better and a stable life.
We encourage to take the political process forward. It is important to pursue an open and inclusive dialogue and demonstrate political will in order to find solutions to the most pressing issues with the constitutional reform. Furthermore, more clarity regarding the electoral calendar is needed. Creating conditions for the upcoming legislative elections is of the utmost importance.
Madame President,
The ongoing political crises and socio-economic challenges have a worrisome impact on the security situation as they prepare the ground for increased criminal activities and violence. Gang-related crime still remains of great concern.
It is positive that the Haitian National Police has demonstrated growing professionalism and restraint in enforcing public order.
During the reporting period the number of human rights violations, abuses and killings has increased. Efforts to combat impunity are required. No progress has been made on any cases documented since MINUJUSTH, including La Saline and Bel Air. 74 per cent of the detainees are still waiting for their trial due to lengthy and complicated judicial proceedings which is also the cause of prisons being overcrowded. We stress the importance of enhancing accountability and to ensure that all cases are properly investigated and the perpetrators are brought to justice.
Madame President,
Finally, I would like to thank Special Representative Helen La Lime and her team for their work. We remain hopeful that continued efforts will bring a better future for Haiti.
Thank you!