In a decisive move on Friday, the United Nations Security Council adopted a resolution to intensify the arms embargo on Haiti, extending it for an additional year. This action comes in response to the unrelenting gang violence plaguing the nation, aiming to curb the flow of weapons and ammunition that fuel the conflict.

The resolution reinforces measures against the territorial spread of arms and introduces stringent requirements for the management and disposal of illegally obtained weapons. Despite previous efforts to strengthen the embargo in 2024, a UN report highlighted that gangs continued to procure weapons unabated, with the implementation challenged by the gangs' control over strategic locations within Haiti.

Originally instituted as Resolution 2653 in 2022, the sanctions regime was a response to Haiti's deepening economic turmoil and escalating security issues, particularly in the Port-au-Prince area. Initial sanctions included travel bans and a targeted arms embargo to prevent sales to designated individuals.

However, the situation deteriorated further in 2023, with a sharp increase in killings, kidnappings, and sexual violence by criminal groups. Gang dominance over critical infrastructure and agricultural supply points led to severe food insecurity for millions, prompting the UN to deploy a multinational security mission to address the violence.

Despite the continuation of sanctions in 2024, the violence surged. During the 57th session of the Human Rights Council, it was reported that criminal organizations were responsible for approximately 2,500 killings, 1,200 assaults, and 900 kidnappings in the first half of the year alone. The violence displaced around 580,000 people, with many children being forced into gang membership due to the dire economic and food crisis.

The instability has persisted into 2025, with criminal activities now spreading beyond Port-au-Prince to rural areas that lack significant state presence. In response to the escalating crisis and the apparent ineffectiveness of previous measures, the Security Council implemented a new multinational Gang Suppression Force on September 30, replacing the former security mission.

This latest resolution reflects the international community's continued commitment to restoring peace and stability in Haiti, though challenges remain significant. The effectiveness of these renewed efforts will be crucial in determining the future trajectory of security and human rights in the embattled nation.