Organization of American States (OAS) Secretary General Albert Ramdin concluded a visit to Haiti on Wednesday, stating that the Caribbean nation requires significant assistance to combat pervasive gang violence and reclaim territory. The appeal comes as Haiti prepares to hold general elections for the first time in over a decade, a process hampered by the country's severe security crisis.
During his trip, Ramdin met with Haitian Prime Minister and other officials, emphasizing the critical need for enhanced support for the new U.N.-backed gang suppression force. He highlighted that the force requires additional personnel, equipment, and funding to be effective. "The efforts of the (force) are essential to improving security and public safety, and to creating the conditions for a safe electoral process," Ramdin stated, calling for "visible and measurable" progress.
Security Priorities and Electoral Process
Ramdin identified key security priorities, including securing the main route to the international airport, ensuring continuous access to both the airport and seaport, and restoring safe passage to Haiti's southern region. Gangs currently exert control over the primary routes leading into and out of the capital, Port-au-Prince.
He also urged Haitian authorities to accelerate the registration and identification of voters in anticipation of the general elections scheduled for December 13. Haiti has been without a president since the assassination of Jovenel Moïse in July 2021. Since Moïse's death, gang violence has escalated dramatically, resulting in the displacement of a record 1.5 million people.
International Support and Economic Conditions
Ramdin pledged continued efforts to mobilize political, technical, and financial support for Haiti. The OAS intends to collaborate with the Pan American Health Organization to establish trauma centers dedicated to treating injured Haitian police officers who are engaged in ongoing efforts to push back against gangs. These gangs are estimated to control approximately 70% of Port-au-Prince and significant areas beyond the capital.
Furthermore, Ramdin plans to assemble a delegation of business leaders to explore potential investment projects in Haiti, a country grappling with deepening poverty, hunger, and unemployment.
"Haiti is at a decisive point," Ramdin said. "The future of Haiti belongs first and foremost to the Haitian people. But the international community also has responsibilities."