UN Authorizes Significant New Force to Combat Gang Violence in Haiti

The United Nations Security Council approved a new, more powerful “Gang Suppression Force” of 5,550 personnel to tackle escalating gang violence in Port-au-Prince, Haiti.

The force, backed by the U.S. and Panama, is authorized to make arrests of suspected gang members, a power the previous mission lacked.

The move comes as gangs now control large parts of the capital and violence has driven mass displacement.

Some UN members, including Russia and China, abstained in the vote, raising concerns about long-term commitment and the mission’s rules of engagement.

Implications:
The new force is seen as a critical step to restore order in Haiti, support political stabilization, and lay the groundwork for future elections. However, its success will heavily depend on funding, troop contributions, and coordination with Haitian authorities.