On the occasion of the World Day of Peace, Pope Leo XIV, a fervent advocate of international harmony, called for a "disarmed peace" for Haiti.

"The Haitian Nation, standing strong despite its trials, welcomes this call as a promise," declared Bishop Gontrand Décoste of Jérémie, who emphasized the theological and practical relevance of Leo XIV's vision to the Haitian context.

On this January 1st, Pope Leo XIV's message resonates with particular force in Haiti. The pontiff calls for a "disarmed and disarming peace."

Bishop Gontrand Décoste analyzes this appeal and clarifies that a disarmed peace requires the complete absence of firearms and the immediate cessation of hostilities on national territory, while a disarming peace is a process of dialogue that encourages those who hold power by force to lay down their arms in order to restore national security and the authority of the state.

While an international force to supress gangs (GSF) is expected to begin operations in April 2026, Haiti remains under the control of coalitions of armed gangs and terrorists. These groups paralyze the economy, block roads, and fuel a regional drug trade. "Some are profiting from insecurity and the sale of ammunition while the people live in abject poverty," laments the Bishop of Jérémie.

Despite these difficulties, Bishop Décoste remains optimistic : "Haiti will not perish." 42 years after Pope John Paul II’s historic visit, the cry "Haiti will live" continues to inspire the faith of the faithful. Marian pilgrimages to Port-au-Prince are transformed into acts of spiritual resistance against the darkness.

The Haitian Church embraces the words of Leo XIV : "Evil will not prevail."

For the poor and the forgotten, this message serves as a reminder that the current crisis is not inevitable, but a challenge to be overcome through faith and unity.

S/ HaitiLibre