76th Session of the United Nations General Assembly
UN Security Council meeting on Haiti
Delivered by Ambassador Sven Jürgenson
October 4, New York
I would like to thank Special Representative of the Secretary General Helen La Lime and Ms Emmanuela Douyon for their informative briefings and valuable work.
Mr President,
This has been a very challenging year for Haiti – the assassination of President Moïse, the horrific earthquake, the continuing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a consequence, the political and humanitarian crisis has only worsened.
We are concerned about the lack of progress on the political landscape. Worsening security situation deepens instability in Haiti and can also affect the stability of the region.
It is high time for the political leaders in Haiti to take action and put the country back on track. We take note of the announcement by the Prime Minister Ariel Henry to hold a referendum to modify the country’s constitution by February, and the plan to organize presidential and legislative elections early next year. This is the key to overcoming this long-lasting crisis.
We call on the authorities of Haiti to organize free, fair and transparent elections. It is crucial to build trust and create conditions for credible elections. We urge all political actors and stakeholders to set aside their differences in order to achieve a positive outcome and find a solution to the crisis. Inclusive dialogue is needed to move the political process forward and reach a national consensus.
Another important element in regaining trust is enhancing accountability and ensure that all cases of violence are properly investigated, including the assassination of President Moïse.
The security situation remains worrisome. This is a consequence of the armed gangs’ criminal activities that need to be dealt with. We call on authorities to address violence and put more effort into stopping gang-related criminal activities. Measures need to be taken to protect the lives of human rights defenders, journalists and activists. The police forces need to be strengthened so that they could respond more effectively and offer greater protection to the Haitian people. Further displacement of populations must be prevented.
We encourage the authorities to support establishing an Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights in Haiti to safeguard continued collaboration with State authorities on human rights issues. It is important to maintain what has already been achieved.
Mr President,
Haiti benefits from the presence of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti. I would like to express Estonia´s strong support to the activities of the BINUH and to the work of the Special Representative. We believe that joint efforts by all stakeholders can bring stability and sustainable development for the country.
Thank you!