Thank you, Mr President,
I would like to thank Special Representative of the Secretary General Helen La Lime for her informative briefing. I would also like to express Estonia´s strong support to the activities of the BINUH and to the work of Special Representative.
Mr President,
Estonia is concerned about the lack of political stability in Haiti. More progress is needed in setting a consensual reform agenda and ensuring free, fair and transparent elections. Moving forward with the political process needs a comprehensive dialogue that would result with a national consensus.
We urge to take stronger measures against insecurity and impunity. Despite some progress, justice is still not met. The Raboteau massacre, Lilavois, Grand’Ravine, La Saline, and Bel Air cases prove the lack of accountability for human rights violations and abuses. Impunity is also a contributing factor to the increase of gang-related violence. We reiterate the importance of enhancing accountability and call the Government of Haiti to modernize the justice system. Judicial institutions need to be strengthened to ensure that all cases are properly investigated and perpetrators are held accountable for their crimes.
We welcome the appointment of a new Minister-delegate for Human Rights and the Fight against Extreme Poverty. It is a sign of the Government’s commitment to strengthen national policies on human rights. We encourage the authorities to support establishing an Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights in Haiti. This, in a long-term perspective, would help to maintain what has already been achieved.
Lastly, we commend all measures taken by the Government of Haiti to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. It is of utmost importance to address the socio-economic impacts of the pandemic which has increased vulnerability and inequality of the people of Haiti. Implementing the UN-supported assessment and recovery plan can be a great support for Haiti in dealing with this already dire situation.
Haiti and its people deserve a stable state with democracy, the rule of law, and sustainable development. This is what we hope the Government of Haiti will strive for. More importantly, this is what the Haitian people have the right to expect from their political leaders.
Mr President,
In conclusion, we encourage all parties to continue to work in a constructive spirit. We remain hopeful that continued efforts will bring a better future for Haiti.
Thank you!
