US Solicits G20 Support for Kenya's Peacekeeping Mission in Haiti

US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken is seeking International Support for the Controversial Haiti Peacekeeping Mission.

To bolster international backing for the Kenya-led peacekeeping mission in Haiti, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken convened a two-day meeting in Brazil with representatives from 20 countries. This initiative follows concerns regarding the mission's funding and Kenya's ability to deploy its planned contingent of 1,000 police officers. During his Wednesday meeting with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Blinken emphasized the pressing need for international support to address the escalating humanitarian crisis in Haiti.

While President da Silva expressed reservations about committing police volunteers, he agreed to participate in a high-level discussion hosted by the UN and the US on Thursday, titled "Rising to the Challenge on Haiti." This G20 gathering presents Blinken with another opportunity to urge Brazil's support and garner wider cooperation for the mission. Although the US has pledged financial backing, the mission requires additional contributions from other nations in the form of equipment and personnel.

Kenya's ambitious plan to dispatch 1,000 police officers has encountered numerous obstacles, including financial limitations and legal hurdles. In January, the Kenyan High Court ruled against the deployment, citing constitutional concerns. President William Ruto, however, remained resolute and announced efforts to establish a bilateral agreement with Haiti. Last week, representatives from both countries signed a Memorandum of Understanding during a conference in the US, but details regarding a revised deployment timeline remain undisclosed.

While the US Secretary of State rallies international support for the Kenya-led peacekeeping mission in Haiti, concerns regarding its viability persist. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, echoing sentiments amongst South American leaders, acknowledges the complex situation in Haiti extending beyond mere security concerns. His government, along with others in the region, remains hesitant to contribute personnel to the mission, which operates outside the purview of the United Nations.

Financial feasibility also presents a challenge. The Biden administration estimates the mission's cost at $515-600 million for two years, subject to adjustments based on operational plans and evolving needs on the ground. Securing sufficient funding from participating nations remains a crucial hurdle. Meanwhile, the humanitarian crisis in Haiti worsens. The escalating violence has displaced over 300,000 individuals, disrupting vital aid delivery. The World Food Program's urgent appeal for access underscores the dire situation, with nearly half the population facing severe hunger.