Monica Juma seeks stronger global support for Haiti security mission
By Faith Lagat, July 20, 2026United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Executive Director Monica Juma has called for increased international support to help Haiti strengthen its security and justice institutions as the country confronts escalating violence linked to organised criminal groups.
Juma made the appeal after holding talks with United States Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz ahead of presenting the 11th UNODC report on Haiti to the UN Security Council on Monday, July 20, 2026.
In a post on X, Juma thanked the US envoy for the discussions on Haiti’s security situation.
“Thank you, Ambassador Walz @USAmbUN, for taking the time to discuss how we can scale up support for Haiti. As the GSF deploys, it will be critical to strengthen law enforcement and criminal justice institutions so that security gains can be sustained, rule of law restored, and democratic processes safeguarded,” Monica Juma’s statement read in part.
The report to the Security Council, prepared under Resolutions 2692, 2743, and 2785, assesses Haiti’s security situation and the impact of organised crime on the country.
Focus on regional security
Juma said she also briefed Ambassador Waltz on UNODC’s new integrated regional programme for the Caribbean, which seeks to strengthen cooperation against transnational organised crime.
“I also shared plans for @UNODC’s new integrated regional programme for the Caribbean, which aims to help Haiti tackle transnational organised crime while supporting countries across the region to carry out joint operations, disrupt trafficking networks, and strengthen regional security together.”
Responding to the meeting, Waltz commended UNODC’s work in combating international criminal organisations.
“The UN Office on Drugs and Crime does important work, taking on international thugs, cartels, and traffickers who threaten our communities.”
“Productive discussion with @UNODC Executive Director @Monica_Juma_ on how her team can streamline and put even more wins on the board.”
Growing organised crime challenge
Juma said criminal networks in Haiti continue to evolve beyond gang violence, expanding into illicit arms trafficking, drug trafficking, corruption and illicit financial flows.
“The growing convergence of transnational organised crimes… continues to threaten efforts seeking to restore security to Haiti,” she said. “Furthermore, the evolving situation also translates into significant risks to its neighborhood, and beyond.”
She said restoring stability requires immediate security interventions alongside long-term investment in institutions, including stronger legal frameworks, criminal justice systems and community protection.
Juma also described UNODC as “a critical actor and force multiplier” in supporting governments through technical assistance on crime prevention, anti-corruption efforts and justice sector reforms.
Haiti continues to face a prolonged security crisis, with armed groups controlling large sections of Port-au-Prince and disrupting essential services. The international community is supporting the transition from the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission to the Gang Suppression Force (GSF), which is expected to work alongside the Haitian National Police in efforts to restore security and the rule of law.