Americas Quarterly’s Post

Following World Day Against Trafficking in Persons (July 30), UNU-CPR explores the crucial role the financial sector can play to address #modernslavery and #humantrafficking through financial inclusion – looking specifically at how extending financial services and products to poor and marginalized communities in crisis settings can offer effective protection against these crimes.   A new blog authored by Leona Vaughn, PhD of UNU-CPR’s Finance Against Slavery & Trafficking initiative and Louis Herns Marcelin and Toni Cela of the Interuniversity Institute for Research and Development (INURED) analyses the current crisis in Haiti and the country's increasing vulnerability to modern slavery – and provides several recommendations that Haiti’s financial sector and the international community can adopt to protect Haitians: 👉 Support collaborative efforts to offer diverse formal financial services to underserved populations.  👉 Explore how to safeguard and enhance informal financial services (for example solidarity mutuals and cooperatives). 👉 Prioritize those most vulnerable to experiencing modern slavery (especially youth and women/girls) within financial inclusion strategies and economic empowerment activities, during and post-crisis.  👉 Monitor for unintended consequences such as increased or sustained financial exclusion and other vulnerabilities to modern slavery during and post the current UN targeted sanction regime.  Join us in spreading awareness and help us create a safer and more secure future for Haiti’s most marginalized communities. Read this thought-provoking blog now and be part of the conversation: https://lnkd.in/eR5mzUcK

Since the departure of Prime Minister Ariel, the Haitian government has been engulfed in a void of leadership, exacerbating the country's existing challenges. This absence of effective governance has created a power vacuum that armed gangs have swiftly exploited, strengthening their grip on certain regions of the country. These gangs have escalated their attacks, spreading terror and violence in vulnerable communities, and threatening public security on a large scale. The recent attack on the Bank of the Republic of Haiti (BRH) has been a stark example of the growing audacity of armed gangs. This attack has highlighted the vulnerability of public institutions and has had devastating repercussions on confidence in the country's financial system. In response to the rise of armed gangs and increasing insecurity, thousands of individuals, including men, women, and children, have been forced to flee their homes in search of safety. These forced displacements have exacerbated the already severe humanitarian issues, with limited access to food, water, and healthcare. Economically, political instability and insecurity have had devastating effects. Businesses have been forced to suspend operations, investments have declined, and unemployment has risen, worsening the precarious situation for Haitian households. Investor confidence has been shaken, leading to economic stagnation and deteriorating living conditions for many Haitians. Faced with this multidimensional crisis, it is imperative for Haitian authorities and the international community to join forces to restore stability, strengthen the rule of law, and address the urgent humanitarian needs of the population. Coordinated efforts are needed to combat armed gangs, restore public security, and rebuild trust in the country's institutions.

The crisis in #Haiti has reached a critical moment. Criminal groups that kill, rape, and kidnap at will are terrorizing residents, bringing transportation, health care, education, and the delivery of much-needed humanitarian assistance to a near standstill across much of the country. WFP says 5 million people are facing severve hunger. Urgent action is needed to restore basic security that will allow for the return of democratic governance so people can freely exercise their human rights and basic freedoms. Today, Human Rights Watch released a briefing paper that outlines six key measures to allow for democratic governance, human rights protections, and access to essential goods and services. 1)United Nations Security Council members should keep their promise to the people of Haiti and urgently establish a UN-authorized security support mission with all necessary human rights safeguards. 2)Urgently establish a transitional government made up of leading Haitians who are not tarnished by credible allegations of corruption, support to criminal groups, human rights violations, or other serious crimes. 3)Urgently provide the necessary resources to allow for the immediate and safe delivery of humanitarian aid to Haitians in need. 4)Assist Haiti in rebuilding its justice system in a rights-respecting way, prioritizing accountability for serious human rights abuses. 5)Scale up efforts to stop the flow of weapons and ammunition into Haiti. Don't deport, return, or otherwise force people to go to Haiti. 6)United Nations Security Council members should address the deteriorating situation in Haiti by keeping their promise to the Haitian people and urgently acting to restore basic security. US action and support is critical in each of the six measures.

Fri 2024-04-12 21:07 The United States Welcomes Establishment of Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council 04/12/2024 08:45 PM EDT Matthew Miller, Department Spokesperson The United States welcomes today’s establishment of a Transitional Presidential Council (TPC) in Haiti. The result of months of discussion among diverse Haitian stakeholders, this Council helps pave the way for free and fair elections and the expedited deployment of a Multinational Security Support mission. We applaud Haitians for their commitment to move forward in a spirit of reconciliation and national dialogue. We remain committed to working with CARICOM and international partners to support the TPC’s mission to work for and improve the lives of all Haitians. The security situation in Haiti remains untenable due to the violence caused by gangs that claim to represent the Haitian people but thrive on violence and misery. Gangs have shut down key infrastructure and economic sites that are lifelines for fuel, humanitarian aid, and other vital supplies, and continue to strip Haitians of their rights to food, education, and healthcare. The United States is surging support for the Haitian security forces to bolster their capabilities as they fight to defend their country. We commend Haitian leaders for making tough compromises to move toward democratic governance via free and fair elections. Much work lies ahead, and the United States remains committed to supporting the people of Haiti. Stay connected with the State Department:

Mon 2024-04-15 09:31 The United States welcomes the establishment of the Presidential Transitional Council in Haiti United States Department of State Statement from the spokesperson Statement from spokesperson, Matthew Miller April 12, 2024 The United States welcomes today's creation of a Presidential Transitional Council (PTC) in Haiti. The result of several months of discussions between the various Haitian stakeholders, this Council helps pave the way for free and fair elections and the rapid deployment of a multinational security support mission. We commend Haitians for their commitment to moving forward in a spirit of reconciliation and national dialogue. We remain committed to working with CARICOM and international partners to support PTC's mission to work with all Haitians and improve their lives. The security situation in Haiti remains untenable due to violence caused by gangs who claim to represent the Haitian people but thrive on violence and misery. The gangs have closed critical infrastructure and economic sites that are vital for the supply of fuel, humanitarian aid and other vital supplies, and continue to deprive Haitians of their rights to food, education and health care. The United States is increasing its support for Haitian security forces to strengthen their capabilities in the country's defense. We commend Haitian leaders for making difficult commitments to move toward democratic government through free and fair elections. There is much work to be done, and the United States remains committed to supporting the Haitian people.

🌍 Haiti's Political Landscape Alters as Prime Minister Steps Down 🌍 In a significant development within Haiti's ongoing crisis, Prime Minister Ariel Henry has resigned amidst escalating violence and societal breakdown. The situation reached a tipping point after regional leaders convened in Jamaica to deliberate a new political pathway for Haiti. Henry's inability to return to the country due to gang control over key areas underscored the dire need for a transition. However, despite the turmoil, Henry's tenure has been marked by a delay in elections as he claimed a restoration of security was paramount. With the capital, Port-au-Prince, under a month-long state of emergency and extended curfews, the international community and neighboring nations have called for change, signaling a move towards forming a transitional council. As the RileySENTINEL team highlights this pivotal moment, we are reminded of the importance of regional expertise. For a more thorough understanding of Haiti's challenges and future prospects, access the expanded report on the RileySENTINEL platform. In our mission to "Enable Informed Decisions," RileySENTINEL remains committed to providing precise and actionable security reporting and analysis. To further support your strategic needs, our Security Reporting & Analysis Team is readily available for additional reporting and analysis, easily scheduled through the booking link available at the end of each security report on the RileySENTINEL platform. 🔗 #Haiti #Geopolitics #RegionalSecurity #PoliticalTransition #RileySENTINEL 🌐 https://lnkd.in/dKpgWNW2

Haiti's Unfolding Crisis: The Struggle Against Gang Dominance and Desperation By Ryon C. Patterson, CFCS (Candidate) In the vibrant yet tumultuous Caribbean landscape, Haiti is embroiled in a severe crisis marked by unbridled gang violence, political instability, and acute humanitarian distress. This article delves into the profound adversities and pivotal occurrences shaping the lives of Haitian citizens: Gang Violence and Societal Collapse Criminal Gangs' Ascendancy: Port-au-Prince's streets witness armed groups supplanting state security, instilling terror via assaults on civic institutions, including educational facilities, healthcare centers, and the nation's principal international entry point. Widespread Displacement: Persistent hostilities have compelled approximately 15,000 Haitians to abandon their homes in search of refuge from the pandemonium. Soaring Death Toll: The strife has resulted in over 1,190 fatalities since the dawn of 2024, underscoring the dire necessity for conflict resolution. International Aid Plea: As the crisis escalates, the United Nations has called for the deployment of a multinational force to reinforce Haiti's beleaguered police and military, labeling the current predicament as critically unsustainable. Prime Minister Ariel Henry's Precarious Position Imminent Downfall: Amidst mounting threats, Prime Minister Ariel Henry grapples with resignation demands, especially from gang leader Jimmy "Barbecue" Cherizier, who insinuates potential civil unrest should Henry remain in power. Support Quest Thwarted: Confronted with increasing isolation, Henry has sought international law enforcement assistance during his travels, including visits to Kenya and the CARICOM summit, only to face travel impediments to the capital. Humanitarian Emergency Critical Shortages: Haitians struggle against a stark lack of essentials—electricity, clean water, and transportation are severely restricted due to fuel scarcities. Deepened Political Chaos: The assassination of President Jovenel Moïse has plunged the nation into further instability, intensifying the crisis. Persistent Unrest Violence Escalation: On February 29, significant gunfire exchanges erupted in Port-au-Prince as endeavors to secure a U.N.-sanctioned police force intensified. State of Emergency: In an attempt to restore stability, Finance Minister Patrick Boivert declared a state of emergency on March 3. Unabated Turmoil: Despite these measures, the unrest continues unabated, leaving Haiti in an extended state of emergency. #Haiti

UN Security Council greenlights mission in Haiti Brazil’s presidency of the United Nations Security Council kicked off in an eventful fashion, as the council on Monday authorized a multinational security mission in Haiti to be led by Kenya, aimed at fighting gang violence. The mission was requested by the Haitian government almost one year ago. Since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse two years ago, Haiti has been crippled by a deep institutional, economic, social, and security crisis. New elections to replace the late leader still have not been called, while an unelected government largely seen as incompetent is trying to consolidate power, and gangs have taken control of about half of the capital, Port-au-Prince. According to a UN statement, over 3,000 homicides were reported this year, plus over 1,500 instances of kidnapping for ransom. An August Unicef report cited “unimaginable violence” against women and children. Record levels of violence and kidnappings have led thousands to migrate to other areas or risk their lives at sea trying to reach the U.S. Read the full article by Cedê Silva here 👇 https://lnkd.in/dSh3YPwD #un #haiti #latinamerica #security #immigration #crisis #society #health #people #latam #brazilianreport

As we approach World Day Against Trafficking in Persons (July 30), United Nations University Centre for Policy Research (UNU-CPR) explores the crucial role the financial sector can play to address modern slavery and human trafficking through #financialinclusion – looking specifically at how extending financial services and products to poor and marginalized communities in crisis settings can offer effective protection against these crimes.   A new blog authored by Leona Vaughn, PhD of UNU-CPR’s Finance Against Slavery & Trafficking initiative and Louis Herns Marcelin  and Toni Cela of the Interuniversity Institute for Research and Development (INURED) analyses the current crisis in #Haiti and the country's increasing vulnerability to modern slavery – and provides several recommendations that Haiti’s financial sector and the international community can adopt to protect Haitians: 👉 Support collaborative efforts to offer diverse formal financial services to underserved populations.  👉 Explore how to safeguard and enhance informal financial services (for example solidarity mutuals and cooperatives). 👉 Prioritize those most vulnerable to experiencing modern slavery (especially youth and women/girls) within financial inclusion strategies and economic empowerment activities, during and post-crisis.  👉 Monitor for unintended consequences such as increased or sustained financial exclusion and other vulnerabilities to modern slavery during and post the current UN targeted sanction regime.  Join us in spreading awareness on World Day Against Trafficking in Persons and help us create a safer and more secure future for Haiti’s most marginalized communities. Read this thought-provoking blog now and be part of the conversation: https://lnkd.in/eR5mzUcK #WorldDayAgainstTrafficking #financialinclusion #endmodernslavery #endhumantrafficking

From my recent trip to South Sudan. Statement by USAID National Security Director Colin Thomas-Jensen during his visit to Juba, May 21-24, 2024: I came to Juba May 21-24 with my colleagues Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Enrique Roig and USAID Acting Deputy Assistant Administrator Mark Billera. The purpose of our trip is to call for urgent action to create the conditions necessary for genuine and peaceful elections. These include addressing the lack of political and civic space, politically neutral and unified forces, and full funding and operationalization of necessary electoral institutions. To achieve this, we urge the launch of direct dialogue among transitional government leaders, including President Kiir, First Vice President Machar, and all members of the presidency, with the objective of making genuine and peaceful elections possible. Such dialogue would send an important signal to the South Sudanese people and to donor countries that South Sudan’s leaders are committed to peace and the rejection of violence as a tool for political competition. We also urge the full and immediate implementation of exemptions for the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), UN agencies, humanitarian organizations, and diplomatic missions. Those who seek to impose taxes, fees, and other inappropriate costs on humanitarian assistance are diverting aid away from South Sudanese people in need. U.S. engagement in South Sudan began decades ago. Its endurance is based on values including peace, human rights, democracy, and people’s right to choose leaders who respond to the needs of the South Sudanese people. To view the full statement, click here: https://lnkd.in/eWm_UFPD