April 23, 2025
On Sunday, January 19, the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) announced that it had organized a two-day awareness session on January 16 and 17 in coordination with Haiti’s Ministry of Public Health and Population (MSPP). These sessions, aimed at Guatemalan and Salvadoran officers deployed under the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, focused on key topics such as compliance with human rights standards, principles of the use of force, and protection against sexual abuse.
A total of 63 participants, including 10 women, attended the training sessions. MSS Commander Godefrey Otunge delivered a powerful speech during the opening ceremony, emphasizing the importance of respecting human rights in security operations. The sessions also sought to reinforce the responsibilities of commanding officers and address the issue of children involved with gangs, a significant challenge in Haiti.
These training efforts come as Haiti faces an unprecedented security and humanitarian crisis. Armed gangs control a substantial portion of the country, escalating violence and human rights violations. The MSS, supported by initiatives like these, aims to stabilize the country while ensuring that its operations adhere to international standards.
According to recent reports from the UN and local organizations, Haiti’s security situation remains critical, with a rise in kidnappings and sexual violence. The training sessions conducted by BINUH and the MSPP are part of a broader strategy to strengthen the capacity of security forces and improve civilian protection. These efforts are crucial for restoring stability and paving the way for sustainable solutions, including reinforcing local institutions and enhancing international coordination.
