The political and security situation in Haiti continues to worsen, driven largely by rampant gang violence and an unstable political environment. With over 80% of the nation’s capital, Port-au-Prince, under gang control, international intervention has become increasingly vital to restoring order in the Caribbean nation. Amidst these efforts, Burundi has emerged as a key player by offering to send peacekeepers to help restore security in Haiti. This move signals a growing international consensus on the need for multinational support in stabilizing the country, which has been grappling with severe security challenges since the assassination of its president in 2021.
The Extent of Haiti’s Crisis: A Nation in Freefall
Haiti, once the first independent Black republic in the world, has been in turmoil for several years, but the current crisis has reached alarming levels. The assassination of President Jovenel Moise in July 2021 plunged the country into political chaos. Without a strong central government, gangs have risen to prominence, effectively taking control of Port-au-Prince and other parts of the country. According to recent estimates, these gangs control more than 80% of the capital, causing widespread fear, displacement, and loss of life.
The gravity of the situation cannot be overstated. Over the past year alone, approximately 8,000 people have been killed due to gang-related violence. Kidnappings, extortion, and assassinations have become common, and entire communities have been displaced. In September 2023, the Haitian government declared a state of emergency, which is set to last for at least a month, to combat the influence of these armed gangs. This measure aims to curb the violence, but so far, it has proven difficult to rein in the chaos.
The situation has led to a severe humanitarian crisis. The majority of Haiti’s population lacks access to basic necessities such as food, clean water, and medical services. Infrastructure is deteriorating, and essential services are on the verge of collapse. International aid organizations are struggling to reach those in need because of the dangerous and unstable environment.
In an effort to address the ongoing violence, a transitional presidential council has been established to lead Haiti until national elections can be held. However, the challenges are enormous, and the interim government faces a monumental task of restoring order and creating the conditions necessary for free and fair elections.
Burundi’s Role: A History of Peacekeeping
Burundi has a notable history of contributing to international peacekeeping missions. The East African country, which itself has dealt with periods of instability and conflict, has demonstrated a strong commitment to peace and security initiatives in Africa and beyond. Over the years, Burundi has deployed peacekeepers to countries such as the Central African Republic, Somalia, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. These missions have allowed Burundi to build experience in stabilizing war-torn areas and working with other nations to promote peace.
Burundi has also previously participated in peacekeeping efforts in Haiti, making this recent offer to send a contingent to help restore security a continuation of its long-standing commitment to international missions. On September 24, 2023, the Burundi Ministry of Foreign Affairs made the announcement on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), following a meeting between Burundi’s Foreign Minister, Albert Shingiro, and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The offer, which signals Burundi’s readiness to assist Haiti once again, comes as part of a broader international effort to stabilize the country.
Kenya Leads the Charge: A Model for Multinational Support
Burundi’s peacekeeping offer comes at a time when Kenya is taking a leading role in the multinational support mission for Haiti. Kenya has already deployed 400 police officers to Haiti and plans to send an additional 600 to help quell the violence and restore order in Port-au-Prince. Kenya’s involvement underscores the increasing participation of African nations in global peacekeeping efforts beyond their regional borders. Kenyan President William Ruto, along with senior officials, has expressed strong commitment to the mission, framing it as a moral and strategic imperative for global peace and stability.
Kenyan police officers, deployed under the framework of the United Nations (UN), are part of a broader initiative that aims to dismantle the gangs currently terrorizing the Haitian capital. Their presence has provided a much-needed boost to the efforts of the Haitian National Police, which has struggled to maintain control in the face of mounting gang violence.
In addition to Kenya’s commitment, other Caribbean nations such as Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas, and Jamaica have also expressed their willingness to send peacekeepers as part of the multinational support mission. These nations recognize the importance of stabilizing Haiti, not only for the benefit of its citizens but also for the broader regional security of the Caribbean.
International Collaboration and the Path Forward
Burundi’s offer of peacekeepers is part of a larger trend of international collaboration aimed at stabilizing Haiti. The involvement of various countries in providing security assistance reflects the recognition that Haiti’s problems are not solely the responsibility of its government but are part of a larger global issue of insecurity, fragility, and instability. International partners are realizing that a stable Haiti is not just important for the well-being of its people, but also crucial for regional stability in the Caribbean and beyond.
The United Nations and other international bodies have been working to coordinate these multinational efforts. In recent months, the UN has been in discussions with various countries to assess the level of support needed for a sustainable peacekeeping mission. The deployment of Burundian peacekeepers, along with Kenyan officers and other international forces, is seen as a crucial step in stabilizing Port-au-Prince and reclaiming control from the gangs.
However, the road ahead remains challenging. The peacekeeping forces will face enormous hurdles in dismantling the gang networks, restoring law and order, and ensuring the safety of the Haitian people. The gangs, which have become deeply entrenched in society, have access to heavy weaponry and operate with a level of impunity that has made them difficult to dislodge. The peacekeepers will need not only military capabilities but also diplomatic and community-based approaches to win the trust of the local population and weaken the gangs’ influence.
The Broader Humanitarian Effort
While the focus has been on restoring security, the humanitarian crisis in Haiti cannot be overlooked. With thousands displaced and the population facing extreme poverty, there is an urgent need for humanitarian aid. The multinational peacekeeping mission must work in tandem with humanitarian organizations to provide food, shelter, and medical care to those affected by the violence.
In this regard, Burundi’s history of peacekeeping could prove invaluable. The country’s peacekeepers are well-versed in operating in challenging environments where security and humanitarian needs are intertwined. Burundi’s willingness to contribute peacekeepers to Haiti demonstrates a broader understanding of the importance of providing both immediate security and long-term stability.
The international community, including the United Nations, will need to ensure that the mission is adequately funded and supported. The involvement of nations like Kenya, Burundi, and others signals a growing commitment, but sustained engagement will be essential. Global powers, including Canada, the United States, and France, will also play crucial roles in supporting the mission, both in terms of providing logistical support and ensuring political backing.
Conclusion: A Call for Continued Commitment
The ongoing crisis in Haiti presents one of the most pressing security and humanitarian challenges in the Western Hemisphere. The offer by Burundi to send peacekeepers, alongside Kenya’s already-deployed forces, reflects a growing international consensus that the situation requires immediate and sustained intervention.
While the peacekeepers will play a critical role in restoring order, the challenges they face are immense. The entrenched gang violence, coupled with the dire humanitarian situation, means that the road to a stable and peaceful Haiti will be long and fraught with difficulty. Yet, with the commitment of nations like Burundi, Kenya, and others, there is hope that Haiti can eventually emerge from its current crisis and move toward a more stable and secure future.
