UNODC’s Executive Director Calls for Action
The head of the United Nation’s drugs and crime office, Ghada Waly, issued a grave warning about the “vicious cycle” of arms trafficking that is empowering Haitian gangs and exacerbating violence throughout the Caribbean region. Speaking at a U.N. Security Council meeting, Waly stressed the urgency of taking decisive action to prevent illicit flows. She emphasized the interconnectedness of arms trafficking and gang activity, stating that they feed off each other.
US as a Key Source of Illegal Firearms
According to a recent report from the UNODC, a majority of the illegal firearms seized in Haiti originate from the United States, with notable contributions from states like Florida, Arizona, Georgia, Texas, and California. The report identified Taurus, Glock, Beretta, and Smith & Wesson as the most prevalent handgun manufacturers involved in the trafficking. Interestingly, the latter three are defendants in a significant lawsuit that seeks to hold gun makers accountable for their role in firearms trafficking outside the United States.
Collaboration with Smugglers and Gangs
The report also revealed the likelihood of traffickers partnering with sanctioned Haitians to smuggle weapons for gangs. Specifically, it identified the groups 400 Mawozo and 5 Segond as acting as brokers, utilizing firearms distribution to solidify their power. To circumvent border restrictions, smugglers have resorted to using more remote routes and clandestine airstrips since the Dominican Republic shut down its border with Haiti. Although the U.S. connection was not explicitly mentioned in the meeting, it remains a significant aspect of the issue.
Discussion and Concerns
This Security Council meeting took place just a day before a Kenyan hearing to determine the legality of Kenya’s proposed leadership of a U.N.-ratified force intended to support the Haitian police in their fight against gangs. The deployment request was made by Haiti in October 2022, but no date has been set yet. Countries have been hesitant to offer troops due to previous U.N. missions leaving behind a cholera epidemic and facing accusations of sexual abuse by peacekeepers. Nonetheless, the meeting provided an opportunity for constructive dialogue and the urgent need for support, as conveyed by Tirana Hassan, the Executive Director of Human Rights Watch. The organization interviewed Haitians who expressed both hesitation and a desperate need for assistance. Hassan highlighted that approximately 300,000 individuals have been internally displaced, with many having lost their homes due to arson attacks. She called on neighboring nations to cease deportations of hundreds of thousands of migrants back to Haiti.Jose de la Gasca, the U.N. ambassador from Ecuador, spoke out about the allegations surrounding peacekeepers during the U.N.’s 2004-2017 mission in Haiti. He emphasized the importance of justice and reparations in addressing these claims, particularly in light of Ecuador’s own struggle against armed gangs.Overall, the Security Council meeting shed light on the pressing issues surrounding arms trafficking, gang violence, and the critical need for international cooperation in supporting Haiti.