Front the United Nations Security Council on April 3, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations Jean-Pierre Lacroix expressed confidence in the ability of the National Police of Haiti (PNH) "to manage security risks without international operational support."

"We support the Haitian leaders' desire to put an end to peacekeeping in Haiti and have the MIJUSTH mandate end in October this year, as well as their wish that the Haitian authorities take full responsibility for the country's security and all related obligations. We have confidence in the ability of the Haitian National Police to manage security risks without international operational support. The United Nations would continue to provide strategic advice for the institutional development of the HNP and for the strengthening of its logistical capabilities, including through bilateral assistance."

In his statement Ambassador Jonathan Cohen, Acting Permanent Representative of the United States Mission to the United Nations, abounds in the same statement :

"[...] As the report of the United Nations Secretary-General, Mr. Guterres '“unless there are mounting challenges to the government’s capacity to respond to the crisis, the HNP will be able to fully assume responsibility for security and protection of Haiti by 15 October 2019' The United States shares this assessment, and notes that it reflects the will of the Government of Haiti to conclude the peacekeeping operation by that time.

[...]

In this broader context, we encourage the President of Haiti and elected representatives to work together, in accordance with Haiti’s constitution, to form a new government to serve the Haitian people as soon as possible. We continue to support a constructive and inclusive dialogue among government leaders from across the Haitian political spectrum, civil society, faith-based organizations, and the private sector to find lasting solutions to the current political and economic crisis."

At this meeting, the members of the Security Council, on the whole, reaffirmed their commitment to continue to support the authorities and the people of Haiti in finding adequate and lasting solutions to the country's major difficulties. The main concerns included the climate of violence perpetrated by armed gangs. Council members and others said that it was important to ensure, among other things, the forthcoming fair and democratic parliamentary elections in the country, the strengthening of the main State institutions, including the police. Haiti, and the establishment of a constructive and inclusive dialogue between Haitians.

SL/ HL/ HaitiLibre