Statement by the Permanent Representative of Brazil to the United Nations, Ambassador Ronaldo Costa Filho, at the UNSC meeting on Haiti - October 17th, 2022

Mr. President,

I would like to thank SRSG Helen La Lime and the briefers for their comprehensive reports. I also recognize the presence of Mr. Jean Victor GENEUS, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Worship of Haiti.

Less than one month ago, on September 26, we had comprehensive briefings on the situation of Haiti, with the participation of the UNODC and the WFP.

During the meeting, we were once again informed of the calamitous situation in the country, aggravated by the shortage of fuel supply in Port au Prince due to criminal activity, which poses far-reaching humanitarian consequences for Haiti. We are concerned that the situation risks further deterioration.

On the political front, talks have not advanced, frustrating the expectation that an agreement between the main political groups was close to being announced.   

To make matters even worse, the current outbreak of cholera in Haiti, if not rapidly controlled, risks taking many more lives.

The Council must act in order to help the Haitian government regain control of the situation and avoid further escalation.

During the negotiation of resolution 2645, which renewed BINUH`s mandate, a fruitful dialogue was established among the members of this Council. As a consequence, we are close to agreeing on a new resolution that will implement provisions foreseen in resolution 2645, particularly on prohibiting the transfer of small arms, light weapons and ammunition to non-State actors in Haiti and on imposing measures, such as an asset freeze and a travel ban, against those engaging in or supporting gang violence.

As we further negotiate the new resolution, Brazil wants to make sure that such measures, if adopted, do not have adverse humanitarian consequences for the civilian population. Developing appropriate listing criteria, conditions and mechanisms for lifting the sanctions, humanitarian exemptions and carve-outs are essential for the effectiveness of this new sanctions regime.

Mr. President,

We took note of the options conveyed by the SGNU in his 9 October letter to increase the security in Haiti. We also took note of the appeal by the Haitian government to receive a specialized armed force to help control the humanitarian crisis in the country.

We must all examine how to best assist Haiti. Brazil has a long-standing contribution to peace, development and stability in Haiti and continues committed to supporting its people.

Brazil share the view that besides security measures, socio-economic progress in Haiti is key in addressing this crisis in an effective and sustainable way. In such sense, we reiterate our opinion that Haiti could further benefit from participating in the PBC, so as to discuss ways to strengthen its institutions and exchange ideas on successful experiences of other countries facing similar economic and political challenges.

As a long-standing partner, we are glad that two of the most important Brazilian cooperation projects in Haiti will be concluded in 2022.  By means of bilateral cooperation, three hospitals are already functioning and represent an important contribution to the Haitian Health System; and a Professional Training Center will soon be inaugurated in the city of Les Cayes. Until
the end of the year, Brazil will donate 650 thousand dollars to the fund created for the reconstruction of the southern peninsula of Haiti, severely hit by an earthquake in 2021.

Mr. President,

We exhort, once again, all Haitian political actors to constructively engage in the current dialogue and urgently agree on a political way forward. A Haitian-led solution to the crisis is central to curb violence, allow for the resumption of the normal functioning of Haitian institutions and pave the way for free and fair elections, as soon as the security situation permits.

In closing, I would like to stress Brazil remains committed to Haiti and to the Haitian people.

I thank you.