Haiti Urges Immediate Continental Action Against Gangs at OAS Security Talks

Washington, April 23, 2026 — Haiti’s deepening security crisis took center stage at the Organization of American States (OAS) as the Committee on Hemispheric Security convened to address regional cooperation against gang violence.

Speaking on behalf of Haiti, Minister Counselor Frantz Elbé delivered a stark assessment of the country’s fragile security landscape.He highlighted the structural strain on national forces, citing limited manpower, insufficient equipment, and the growing sophistication of armed groups.

Despite ongoing efforts by the government and international partners — including institutional strengthening programs such as P-4000, H-TAC, and SECURE-Haiti — the situation remains critical.Elbé emphasized that Haiti is not seeking charity, but actionable solidarity.

He called for immediate and concrete measures, including the rapid deployment of specialized support forces and enhanced operational capacity to counter gangs in the short term.

Beyond security interventions, he urged a comprehensive strategy addressing root causes such as social exclusion, unemployment, and limited access to education — framing Haiti’s crisis as a regional priority requiring coordinated, sustained action.