High-Stakes Mission: Secretary Blinken’s Crucial Trip to Haiti

Secretary Antony Blinken’s visit to Haiti tackles gang violence and humanitarian crises, but is his mission enough to restore order?

At a Glance

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Haiti to reaffirm U.S. commitment to a multinational mission to combat gangs and push for general elections.
400 Kenyan police have been deployed to Haiti for a U.N.-backed mission to address gang violence.
Concerns exist about the mission’s lack of funding and equipment.
Blinken’s visit follows Haiti’s extension of a state of emergency to the entire country.
Haiti last held elections in 2016, with gang violence and political upheaval cited as reasons for delays.

Blinken’s Visit: A Renewed Commitment

Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s recent visit to Haiti underscores the United States’ renewed commitment to addressing gang violence and supporting the democratic process in Haiti. Blinken’s arrival aims to solidify U.S. backing for a multinational mission targeting the formidable gangs that have long undermined Haitian governance and security.

The humanitarian implications are severe; U.S. aid delivery efforts often encounter significant obstacles due to the pervasive presence of gangs, complicating both immediate relief and long-term stability.

Blinken’s schedule includes strategic meetings with Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille, political leaders, and security officials from the multinational mission. The goal is to recognize advancements in security and encourage the appointment of a provisional electoral council to facilitate elections.

Blinken arrives in Haiti to show US support for fighting gang violence https://t.co/9gsfshUXuY

— The Associated Press (@AP) September 6, 2024

International Involvement and Support

Kenyan police have been deployed as part of the U.N.-backed effort, with the presence of 400 officers noted to offer some hope amidst the violence. Despite this, concerns persist around mission funding and equipment, raising questions about the sustainability and effectiveness of these international endeavors.

“Our goal is to recognize the positive progress made toward improving security and encourage efforts to appoint the provisional electoral council so Haiti can move toward elections,” Nichols told reporters ahead of the trip.

The gang influence extends broadly, controlling approximately 80% of Haiti’s capital. This influence has led to frequent attacks on police stations, the airport, and prisons, releasing thousands of inmates. The United States is contemplating a broader U.N. peacekeeping operation to secure the necessary resources to combat these gangs more effectively.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s trip to Haiti comes amid concerns that a policing mission has struggled to dent the country’s gang violence. https://t.co/9OQ8vozQV5

— The Washington Post (@washingtonpost) September 5, 2024

Past Interventions and Current Necessities

Past international interventions in Haiti have often led to unintended consequences, complicating efforts instead of resolving them. However, due to its proximity and past refugee crises, the U.S. has a vested interest in ensuring stability in Haiti.

Blinken’s mission includes reviewing U.S.-provided military armored vehicles and collaborations with Kenyan-led security missions. Despite other global crises, Haiti remains a significant issue for the Biden administration. The U.S. is supporting Kenya’s deployment of about 380 officers, with the goal of having 2,500 personnel from various nations on the ground.

Regional Security and Future Prospects

Blinken is heading to the Dominican Republic to meet with President Luis Abinader and other officials. Discussions will focus on economic ties, human and labor rights, and regional security complexities, particularly Haiti’s instability. President Abinader has faced criticism for his administration’s treatment of Haitian migrants and the closure of airspace with Haiti alongside the construction of a border wall.

Blinken’s efforts highlight a crucial but challenging commitment to Haiti’s security and democratic future, emphasizing the necessity for continued international support and coordination.