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Caribbean leaders urge world to act on crisis-torn Haiti
The declarations were made in the Caribbean summit, accompanied by several political agreements.
A demonstrator holds a Russian flag to call for foreign intervention as he takes part in a protest calling for the resignation of Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry outside the Canadian Embassy, in Port-au-Prince, Haiti February 25 2024. REUTERS/Ralph Tedy Erol
Haiti, the most economically disadvantaged country in the Western hemisphere, has experienced persistent turmoil marked by the dominance of armed gangs in various regions, leading to severe violence that has devastated its economy and healthcare system.
Lula underlined the need for urgent measures
In recent weeks, the nation has witnessed widespread unrest, as thousands of individuals have taken to the streets, demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry in accordance with a political agreement established in December 2022.
Addressing a summit of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in Georgetown, Guyana, Lula underlined the urgent need for swift action in Haiti to alleviate the suffering of a population ravaged by tragedy.
On Tuesday, the United Nations initiated an appeal for $674 million to support humanitarian projects in Haiti, where 45% of the population currently faces food insecurity.
In January alone, the UN reported that over 1,100 individuals were either killed, injured, or kidnapped.
Significant progress was made during the summit
Gaston Browne, the Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, declared that significant progress had been made in discussions during the CARICOM summit. He stated that Prime Minister Ariel Henry had committed to serving as an impartial mediator and sharing power.
As per a December 2022 agreement, reached more than a year after the assassination of President Jovenel Moise, Haiti was slated to hold elections, and Henry was expected to transfer power to newly elected officials by February 7, 2024. However, Henry has retained power, expressing his intention to establish a government of national unity.
Gaston Browne indicated that a power-sharing arrangement could be implemented “within a short period of time,” although it’s not the first instance of Henry making such a commitment. A similar promise was made on January 1 during a speech commemorating Haiti’s 220th independence anniversary.
Regarding the election date, Browne suggested it could potentially be set “within the next 12 months.” Haiti, with a population of approximately 12 million, has not held elections since 2016.
Benin will send troops to Haiti
During the Caribbean summit it was revealed that Benin is considering contributing a 2,000-strong troop contingent to a UN security mission in Haiti. Kenya has agreed to lead the mission, but logistical challenges, a legal dispute in Nairobi, and funding shortages have delayed its deployment.
Browne underscored CARICOM’s expectation of a more significant contribution from Western powers, with a specific call for support from France, the former colonial ruler. He stated that there is a moral obligation for these countries, particularly France, to play a leadership role in resolving the situation and not place the burden solely on developing countries.
