The United Nations has approved a stronger mandate for the Kenya-led multinational force in Haiti, officially renamed the Gang Suppression Force.
The move, endorsed by the UN Security Council on October 1, 2025, empowers the mission to detain suspected gang members.
The resolution passed with 12 votes in favor, while Russia, China, and Pakistan abstained.
Resolution 2793: Expanded Authority
The decision, co-sponsored by the U.S. and Panama, marks a major shift from the force’s earlier limited scope. South Korea’s deputy envoy, Sangjin Kim, confirmed the adoption of Resolution 2793.
U.S. Reaction
U.S. Ambassador Mike Waltz praised the development, noting it gives Haiti “a chance to reclaim stability from gangs spreading terror and chaos.”
Haiti Welcomes the Move
Haiti’s UN representative, Ericq Pierre, described the resolution as a “pivotal moment” in addressing rampant gang violence, which has gripped the nation since the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse.
Haiti’s Escalating Gang Crisis
- Armed groups now control nearly 90% of Port-au-Prince.
- Violence has spilled into rural areas.
- Kidnappings, extortion, and assaults have overwhelmed local police forces.
Challenges for the Force
The Kenya-led mission, deployed in June 2024, still faces hurdles. With fewer than 1,000 troops on the ground, far below the planned 2,500, the force has struggled to make significant progress. Funding shortfalls continue to limit operations.
Why This Matters
By strengthening the mandate, the UN hopes to weaken gang dominance and restore a measure of security.
For many Haitians, this decision represents a rare opportunity to push back against lawlessness and humanitarian suffering.
What Comes Next
The mission is set to expand operations in 2025, contingent on additional funding and new troop commitments.
The enhanced detention powers could prove critical in curbing Haiti’s spiraling violence.
