Holness welcomes UN Security Council resolution authorising Gang Suppression Force for Haiti
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Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness has welcomed the adoption of the UN Security Council resolution authorising the transition of the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti into a Gang Suppression Force for an initial 12-month period.
In a statement on social media platform X, Holness said "This, together with a new UN Mission Office represents a significant step in strengthening the international response to the crisis in Haiti."
The resolution passed by the council on Tuesday provides a clear mandate for the force to work with local authorities to “neutralise, isolate, and deter” gangs, secure infrastructure, and seek to secure institutional stability.
It would raise the personnel ceiling from 2,500 in the current mission, first approved in 2023, to 5,550 personnel.
Holness said Jamaica has been advocating for this advancement to more structured support, and looks forward to this new chapter of partnership through the United Nations, working in partnership with CARICOM, Organisation of American States and the wider international community.
"Today’s decision reaffirms that the international community has heard the cries of and on behalf of the Haitian people and underscores the value of persistent advocacy. We remain committed to standing with the people of Haiti and to working with our partners to help restore security, stability, and hope for the Haitian nation," Holness said.
According to the UN, at least 1.3 million Haitians remain internally displaced due to violence, with 5.7 million facing food insecurity. At least 3,100 people have been killed in violent incidents between January and June 2025.
The country is also in the midst of a political crisis that began with the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in 2021.
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