Haiti is grappling with a complex crisis characterized by escalating gang violence, political instability, the displacement of over 700,000 people, and widespread hunger.
UNICEF has revealed a significant surge in the recruitment of minors by armed gangs, with the number of child recruits increasing by 70% over the past year. Ulrika Richardson, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Haiti, recently discussed with UN News the efforts of the United Nations to support Haiti and its people.
A Nation in Turmoil
UN News: How would you describe the current situation in Haiti?
Ulrika Richardson: There has been a horrifying escalation of violence in parts of Haiti, which is tearing apart the very fabric of society. The past three months alone have seen harrowing massacres in the capital, Port-au-Prince, as well as nearby regions such as l’Artibonite. These brutal acts of dehumanization are intensifying the collective trauma experienced by the Haitian people.
We cannot ignore this grim reality. It is crucial to urgently expand mental health and psychosocial support programs to help heal these wounds and to make such services an integral part of Haiti’s long-term stability plan. The United Nations remains steadfast in its commitment to aid the most vulnerable populations in Haiti during this crisis.
Protecting people in highly vulnerable situations is of utmost importance, particularly in Port-au-Prince, where the capacity of the security forces to safeguard citizens is severely limited. Internally displaced families have fled their homes multiple times, carrying deep emotional scars. At a minimum, we must ensure they are living in humane conditions.
Addressing Haiti’s multifaceted challenges must begin with establishing security. Without it, tackling the humanitarian crisis or achieving sustainable recovery will remain out of reach.
The Role of the International Community
UN News: The deployment of the Multinational Security Support Mission seems to have stalled. What are your thoughts on this?
Ulrika Richardson: We remain hopeful for progress and are working closely with the government, transitional authorities, civil society, and the private sector to make 2025 a brighter year for Haiti. While Kenya has demonstrated strong leadership through the non-UN Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS), the mission is still in the pre-deployment phase due to insufficient international funding.
Although critical contributions have been received, they are far from adequate. Additional support is on the horizon, including more personnel and equipment for the MSS, which underscores continued efforts to strengthen security in Haiti. Achieving security is a crucial step toward advancing both humanitarian and development goals.
Security and Political Stability
UN News: How does security impact Haiti's political stability?
Ulrika Richardson: Security is the foundation for political stability. For the government to implement an ambitious electoral agenda, including constitutional reform, the country needs to invest in economic recovery and foster social peace. Citizens need an environment where they feel safe and empowered to vote.
UN Member States must intensify their efforts immediately to prevent future crises. We cannot wait until it’s too late.
Haiti’s potential is immense. Its history as a symbol of hope, independence, and freedom can serve as inspiration. Mistakes have been made, but we must learn from them and move forward with determination.
Learning from Past Mistakes
UN News: Could you elaborate on some of those mistakes?
Ulrika Richardson: One significant issue has been the lack of investment in Haiti’s productive capacities. Insecurity has deterred foreign investors, who understandably require guarantees of stability. After the 2010 earthquake, there was an unprecedented wave of investment in Haiti. However, much of it failed to strengthen Haitian institutions or foster sustainable development.
Moving forward, it is essential that Haitians take the lead in their own recovery. As the United Nations, we are deeply committed to respecting Haitian leadership and aligning our efforts with the vision of its people.
Youth at the Heart of Haiti’s Future
UN News: Youth is central to discussions around development and security in Haiti. What is critical to empowering them and preventing their recruitment into armed gangs?
Ulrika Richardson: The key is creating opportunities. We must provide alternatives to young people who are often coerced into joining gangs. Imagine the circumstances many of them face—no access to education, the loss of their parents, and the inability to find jobs due to gang-controlled roads. Under such conditions, their choices become tragically limited.
Many children, some as young as eight, are being recruited by gangs for tasks such as running errands or acting as informants. This is a grim reality, exacerbated by the ongoing trafficking of weapons despite existing sanctions. Neighboring nations and international actors must collaborate more effectively to address this issue.
Nevertheless, there is hope. Haiti’s youth possess immense creativity and a strong desire to build a brighter future. By fostering opportunities and supporting their aspirations
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