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The United Nations Secretary-General made his second official visit to Port-au-Prince on Tuesday, June 16, 2026. During a press conference held at the headquarters of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) at the Karibe Hotel, António Guterres made a strong call to the international community to step up its support for Haiti.
Speaking to local and international journalists, António Guterres outlined his expectations for Haiti’s international partners in three points. “First: strengthen security support with a rapid and full deployment of the Force, adjusting resources based on progress on the ground. Second: support the political transition and the country’s recovery—schools, health, employment—to give young Haitians an alternative to gangs and a future with dignity. Third: fund humanitarian aid in a predictable way and to meet the needs,” explained the UN Secretary-General.Beyond the diplomatic directives, António Guterres wanted to leave Port-au-Prince on a note of optimism. ‘For the first time in years, we see a light at the end of the tunnel,’ he said, acknowledging the progress made by the national security forces in fighting gangs in certain areas of the country.
‘Haiti has everything it needs to recover,’ believes António Guterres. Haiti, according to the UN chief, has ‘its creative youth, its committed diaspora, and a culture that shines far beyond its borders,’ he added.Referring to the Battle of Vertières in 1803, the Secretary-General drew a parallel between the historic liberation from colonial rule and the current fight against gang control. “More than two centuries ago, at Vertières, a people achieved what the world thought impossible: they broke their chains and freed themselves,” Mr. Guterres reminded. “I am convinced that this people will know how to free themselves from the grip of gangs and reclaim their security, their institutions, their future,” he said.The role of the UN
At the end of the conference, Antonio Guterres made sure to clarify the stance the United Nations intends to take towards Haiti. Without trying to “act in place” of the Haitians, the UN positions itself as a close partner. “Our place is by your side. And we will be there until the end,” he stated.
