UN Considers Extending Mandate for Haiti Security Mission

The United Nations Security Council is considering extending an international security mission in Haiti to combat armed gangs, potentially transitioning into a formal peacekeeping operation. The current mandate, set to expire in October, has seen limited results. A new draft proposes a 12-month extension and further planning for sustained support.

The United Nations Security Council is deliberating a draft resolution to extend the mandate of an international security mission to help Haiti confront armed gangs. The proposal also suggests transforming the mission into a formal U.N. peacekeeping operation.

The existing mandate for the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission is set to expire at the beginning of October. However, the mission has made few advances due to insufficient troops and funding. The United States and Ecuador have circulated a draft text aimed at extending the mandate for another 12 months, in addition to planning for its transition to a full-fledged peacekeeping mission.

The council, which comprises 15 members, is set to vote on the resolution on September 30. A separate resolution would be required to officially transition the mission into a peacekeeping operation, ensuring adequate funding. China and Russia had previously abstained from voting last year, skeptical of endorsing broad use of force.

(With inputs from agencies.)