Haiti faces expanding gang violence and severe insecurity

Haiti is facing a severe escalation of gang violence that is expanding from Port-au-Prince into rural and mountainous regions. Armed groups are increasingly utilizing mobile tactics, including roadblocks, kidnappings, and drone reconnaissance, to exert influence in areas like Artibonite and Kenscoff. This shift toward a rural operating model allows gangs to conduct raids and cattle theft while avoiding permanent territorial control, making it difficult for constrained Haitian police forces to respond effectively.

At the United Nations Security Council, the United Kingdom highlighted the critical security situation, noting that gangs continue to undermine state authority and terrorize communities. The Council has renewed the mandate for the Gang Suppression Force (GSF) and the UN Sanctions Regime. While efforts are underway to extend security beyond the capital, the UK emphasized the atrocious levels of sexual and gender-based violence, reporting that nearly 700 women and girls reported rape by gangs in July and August alone.

Efforts to restore state authority include expanding the GSF's operational presence and improving reporting mechanisms for survivors of violence. Meanwhile, preparations for elections continue, with calls for broader participation in the electoral process to stabilize the nation.