UN says Haiti reaches critical point in restoring democracy

(MENAFN) The United Nations warned on Wednesday that Haiti is at a “critical juncture” in its efforts to restore democratic institutions, as political fragmentation, escalating gang violence, and worsening humanitarian needs threaten the country’s fragile transition.

Carlos Ruiz Massieu, Special Representative and Head of the UN Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH), addressed the Security Council, stating: "Haiti has entered a critical juncture in its process of restoring democratic institutions." He emphasized that as the new year begins, there are high expectations for concrete progress in both political and security arenas to complete the transitional process.

Ruiz Massieu urged national stakeholders to overcome divisions, cautioning: "There is an overriding need for national stakeholders to strive to contain political fragmentation, to cast aside their differences, to sustain institutional continuity and to focus on the organization of elections." He added: "Let us be clear: the country has no time to waste on prolonged internal fighting," calling on authorities, political parties, civil society, the private sector, and community leaders to collaborate.

The UN envoy highlighted recent electoral advances, including the introduction of new requirements for women’s representation on candidate lists, supported by financial incentives, calling it “an important step toward addressing longstanding barriers to political inclusion.”

On the security front, Ruiz Massieu warned that gangs continue to launch coordinated attacks and dominate key economic and agricultural corridors, fueling displacement and straining police and humanitarian resources. He noted that “Intentional homicides in 2025 increased by nearly 20% compared with 7,574 in 2024.”

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