by Margaret Mair

Created on: January 29, 2010

The United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti, also known as MINUSTAH,  is a multinational force that was established during a period of great unrest to establish order in Haiti.  It replaced the Multinational Interim Force which had been trying to maintain order there, taking over on 1 June, 2004.  It is authorized by the Security Council of the United Nations, and its current authorization lasts until 15 October, 2010.

When MINUSTAH was created and given its current role the Security Council of the United Nations, the United States, the OAS and members of CARICOM saw the situation in Haiti as posing a threat to international peace and security in the region.   At the time armed conflict and political instability were creating a violent and unpredictable situation in the country.  It was feared that the conflict and violence might spread to engulf other countries in the region.

MINUSTAH was given as its mandate the role of providing security, curbing the activities of illegal armed groups and supporting and encouraging widespread participation in democratic elections.  Part of its role has been to support the transitional government in the transition to democratic elections, to support the professionalization of the justice and penal system and to support and train the national police force, all very important if democracy is to flourish.

MINUSTAH’s formation is the result of events which took place after former President Aristide left the country in an unmarked jet on February 29.  The interim president, Boniface Alexandre, President of the Supreme Court, was sworn in  as interim leader after Aristide’s apparent resignation, as required by Haiti’s constitution.  He then submitted a request for assistance in dealing with the violent and volatile situation in Haiti to the United Nations through Haiti’s Permanent Representative there.  Shortly afterward and in consultation with the US,on 17 Mar 2004, an interim government led by Prime Minister Gerard Latortue was formed and the Consensus on Political Transition Pact was developed.  This consensus required the holding of municipal, parliamentary and presidential elections in 2005, and established social, political and judicial reforms as well as setting the terms for a dialogue with the United Nations on the status of their forces already in Haiti.  The party of former President Aristide, Fanmi Lavalas, refused to become

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>