Haiti - Security : Details on the withdrawal of personnel of the Minustah
Last Friday at the UN Security Council the Special Representative of the Secretary General of the United Nations in Haiti and head of the Minustah, Mr. Mariano Fernández recalled the recommendation of Secretary General to the Security Council to consider a reduction of 1,600 in the authorized military personnel for the Minustah by removing two infantry battalions from minimum-risk areas, and redesigning other military units without compromising the primary means.
The Secretary General also recommends, to reduce its authorized police strength of 1,150 officers. This should bring troop levels to 7,500 elements, and those of police officers to 2.300. The same level that before the earthquake of January 2010.
"To strengthen the capacity of its institutions guaranteeing the rule of law and security, Haiti will need the continued support of the Minustah and international donors. The commitment of the international community and increased investment in development, including through the increase of resources will also be of great importance so that any future reduction of Minustah does not create a lack" indicated Mr. Fernández.
The Special Representative admitted that "the situation in the country remained fragile and that any setbacks could lead to a new crisis [...] Haiti iand the Minustah are at a crossroads" saying in conclusion that the international community could be proud of the solidarity they have shown with the country, Mr. Fernández has focused on the essential support of the Security Council and the international community as a whole.
