Mr. President,
We thank the High Commissioner for his update, and for the ongoing work of his Office and the designated expert to address Haiti's crisis.
Since the High Commissioner's March report, violence has escalated, pushing the number of displaced Haitians to 1.4 million.
During a recent visit to northern Haiti, Human Rights Watch interviewed dozens of displaced people from the capital-many of them former students and professionals who lost their homes and livelihoods, and are now sheltering in Cap-Haïtien without access to essential services or aid, despite efforts by the UN and local organizations. Violations of their rights to life and security by criminal groups are compounded by the state's failure to ensure protection.
Mr. President,
As violence in Haiti continues to worsen, the international community should strengthen its engagement to ensure that efforts to restore security are grounded in human rights and effectively protect Haitians.
Following the recent UNSC authorization to transform the Multinational Security Support Mission into a "Gang Suppression Force" in Haiti, it is essential that the international community ensure the mission is properly resourced, fully accountable, and equipped with robust human rights safeguards.
We would like to ask the High Commissioner and designated expert how the international community could better support a comprehensive, rights-based response that addresses urgent humanitarian needs and strengthens protection for victims of violence, including displaced people?
Thank you.
