Let me begin by thanking SRSG La Lime for briefing us today.
Last year, Haiti faced multiple crises that would shake the core of any country. The handling of these crises and much-needed sustainable development in Haiti cannot be achieved without restoring confidence in the political and judiciary system based on the rule of law.
All political actors must commit to an inclusive dialogue to resolve the current political impasse and as soon as feasible, organize new, and legitimate elections. An inclusive process, including the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women, must continue to find a Haitian solution to the political situation.
This situation could benefit from a stronger international engagement with and in Haiti, including a stronger BINUH.
As highlighted in the Secretary-General’s report, human rights violations and abuses associated with the armed violence in Port-au-Prince are alarming and must be addressed with urgency. In particular, the reported use of sexual violence and rape by criminal gangs as a weapon to terrorize and assert control must stop. The gang violence continues to displace affected populations. Women and children make up the majority of those displaced. People with disabilities are at particular risk.
Norway calls upon the authorities to do more to protect their citizens, to ensure that humanitarian workers have unhindered access and to swiftly implement the national community violence reduction strategy.
President,
The underlying root causes that have led to today’s demanding situation for the Haitian people must be addressed. Close coordination is key if we are to succeed in our efforts to support a more positive development for Haiti.
We were very pleased this week that the Haitian government and the UN were able to mobilize a contribution from the international community of 600 mill USD for the post-earthquake reconstruction of areas in the southern peninsula. The world will continue to face both increasingly powerful hurricanes and the impact of climate change that contribute to increased humanitarian needs. We must do more to assist those countries that are most affected, Haiti clearly being one of those.
One area of particular importance is building capacity to implement the National Risk and Disaster Management Plan 2019-2030.
President,
Norway looks forward to the assessment of the BINUH mandate. The assessment must be transparent and based on an inclusive process with all partners, including members of civil society. We need a reinforced BINUH that is fit for purpose and ready to take on the challenges on the ground. This is not the time for less international engagement with and in Haiti.
BINUH and the UN have an even more critical role to play in creating a more stable and prosperous future for Haiti.
Thank you.