Haitian Transitional Council Appoints Edgard Leblanc Fils Amid Renewed UN Sanctions
Port-au-Prince, Haiti – May 1, 2024
In the heart of Port-au-Prince, under the watchful eyes of Haitian police patrolling the National Palace, a new chapter of leadership is unfolding for Haiti. Edgard Leblanc Fils, a noted Haitian politician, has been appointed head of the nation’s transitional ruling council as of April 30, following the resignation of the prime minister amidst rampant gang violence challenging the very fabric of the Caribbean nation.
This leadership change comes at a pivotal moment, as the United Nations Security Council recently renewed a robust sanctions regime on Haiti, aimed at stemming the illicit weapons flow that empowers armed gangs across the troubled nation. The Security Council resolution 2752 (2024) under Chapter VII of the UN Charter, adopted unanimously, underlines the dire situation in Haiti as a significant threat to international peace in the region.
Amid the leadership adjustments, the UN has maintained its firm stance on sanctions originally set in previous resolutions. These measures include targeted assets freezes, travel bans, and an arms embargo, all intended to prevent weapons and military equipment from falling into the hands of gang operatives.
The resolution reflects deep concern over Haiti’s multifaceted humanitarian crisis. Armed gangs have generated a wave of chaos marked by violence, kidnappings, and the displacement of hundreds of thousands, including 350,000 children. Reports of sexual violence and forced executions further paint a grim picture of the current security landscape in Haiti.
Nonetheless, there is room for hope and structural improvements. The sanctions include exemptions facilitating support for UN-authorized missions and Haitian security forces, particularly for humanitarian purposes or protective use. Non-lethal military equipment and associated training that promote peace and stability are permitted to aid these endeavors.
In a parallel move to reinforce local law enforcement, the UN had authorized a Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, initially in 2023, to bolster Haitian police efforts to curb gang activities. Led by Kenya, the MSS now includes approximately 410 police officers on Haitian soil, with numbers set to rise to around 2,500, offering a stronger international presence.
Beyond immediate security needs, the UN resolution emphasizes preventing illicit arms trafficking and fostering collaboration among the UN, regional organizations, and the Haitian government. Strengthening border security, managing weapons stockpiles, and fortifying the Haitian national police’s capacity are focal points for sustainable change.
Tasked with stringent oversight, the UN sanctions committee, along with the Panel of Experts, will continue to monitor and update sanctions lists, particularly targeting those breaching the arms embargo.
The resolution stipulates benchmarks for potentially lifting sanctions, contingent upon reductions in armed violence, bolstered rule of law, and a notable decline in arms trafficking. The UN Secretary-General is expected to provide a thorough progress assessment by October 2025.
The appointment of Edgard Leblanc Fils signals a critical juncture for Haiti’s governance amid complex challenges, with steadfast international efforts aiming to restore order and stability in this resilient nation.
