UN Security Council Renews Haiti Mission Amid Worsening Crises

The United Nations Security Council has renewed the mandate of the UN Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) through resolution 2785, extending it until January 31, 2026, but for only six and a half months instead of the usual one-year extension. The renewal reaffirms support for a Haitian-led solution to the country's overlapping crises amid worsening security, political instability, and humanitarian conditions, including gang violence that controls much of Port-au-Prince and has displaced over 1.3 million people. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has emphasized the urgency of addressing the root causes of the crisis and recommended a full year extension of BINUH with enhanced logistical and security resources, while also calling for support of the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support mission assisting Haitian police. The Security Council expressed intention to consider without delay Guterres's recommendations for the UN's future role in stabilizing Haiti, with members like China showing willingness to engage in constructive dialogue. Meanwhile, the situation remains dire, with soaring violence, food insecurity, erosion of institutions, and a sharp increase in sexual violence against women and girls. Council members, including France, have stressed the necessity of a clear framework and strategic support to bolster security efforts in the country.