Checked Against Delivery
I thank SRSG Ruis-Massieu and Acting Assistant Secretary-General Ratwatte for their briefings, and I welcome the representatives of Haiti, Brazil, Argentina and Mexico today.
Denmark condemns in the strongest terms the heinous gang attack on 23 August in the commune of Kenscoff, near Haiti’s capital Port-au-Prince.
We are appalled by the abhorrent killing of at least 47 people, including children, some of whom were allegedly burned alive in their homes and places of worship.
The attack on Kenscoff has further fuelled Haiti’s displacement crisis, and dire humanitarian situation.
We firmly condemn the reported abduction of more than 50 people by gangs during this attack, and we demand the immediate and unconditional release of those held hostage.
The Haitian people continue to live in terror, as gangs commit the most heinous human right abuses.
According to BINUH’s quarterly human rights report, more than 1,400 people were killed in Haiti in the last three months, with gangs expanding their attacks into different departments.
As we have heard today, the systematic use of rape and sexual violence to punish and terrorise the population, particularly in areas contested by rival gangs, is abhorrent.
Mass child recruitment by gangs, forcing them on the frontlines to suffer or witness extreme levels of violence, is also reprehensible.
Against this dire and worsening backdrop, urgently establishing security and rule of law is imperative. Denmark supports the mission of the Gang Suppression Force to counter the gangs, and calls for the swift deployment of new contingents on the ground.
We reiterate that the GSF must operate with the highest standards of conduct and discipline, with robust oversight and transparency. All national and international efforts aimed at establishing security must prioritise the protection of civilians and be in compliance with international law.
Member States must enhance measures to implement the UN sanctions regime, particularly to cut off Haiti’s gangs’ supply of arms and ammunitions.
Ensuring timely accountability for those who committed these appalling crimes, and justice for victims, is also crucial. We echo the Secretary-General’s call on the Haitian authorities to ensure that the recently created specialised judicial units investigate such mass crimes.
In closing,
Denmark reiterates our steadfast support for the people of Haiti. We will continue to work with all partners to support Haiti on its path to peace, security, and prosperity.
I thank you.
