Topic: 2026 – Situation in Haiti
Country: Panama
Delegate Name: Stephan Thomas
The Republic of Panama considers the situation in Haiti an immediate danger to the regional stability of Central America that can no longer be considered “normal.” In recent years, clear intent for resolution was signaled by the UN’s Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission led by Kenya; however, this effort failed to go all the way due to funding problems, improper equipment, and a deployment that peaked at only 1,000 personnel. Previous missions, such as MINUSTAH (2004–2017), are remembered for human rights abuses and the introduction of cholera, making many Haitians wary of any foreign support. As a co-penholder of the Haiti file, Panama emphasizes that the collapse of the previous Haitian government has trapped millions in a cycle of violence and has also fueled unprecedented migratory pressures across the Greater Caribbean and through the Darien Gap. Panama will remain committed to a more “muscular” response to the Haitian situation in order to prioritize personal security but also to create a long-term government and restore democracy in the region.
Since Panama and Haiti created official diplomatic ties in 1945, there has been a strong bond between the countries. As members of the Organization of American States (OAS), Panama helped participate in efforts to stabilize Haiti in previous crises, such as the 1991 coup. Panama has also allowed political exiles to be supported, such as Haitian coup leader Raoul Cédras in 1994. Panama also helped support Haiti economically by maintaining Panama’s Colon Free Zone which was a vital commercial resource for Haitian merchants.
Panama has led the way in transitioning from the previous Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission into a much stronger Gang Suppression Force (GSF) under UNSC Resolution 2793 (2025). This has allowed the force to expand to 5,550 personnel and is designed to overcome previous funding and support issues by using the newly established UN Support Office in Haiti (UNSOH). Panama maintains the idea that the GSF must have a mandate to detain gang members, protect critical infrastructure, and conduct operations to neutralize armed groups.
Another key piece to Panama’s strategy is the “removal of fuel” from the region. This is the idea that all weapons need to be removed from the conflict. Panama advocates for the strict enforcement of the UN arms embargo and sanctions against the political and economic figures who maintain these relationships with gangs. To support this, Panama has proposed specific regional training programs that Panama is able to host and run, along with cooperation with the Haitian National Police to enhance their ability for urban combat and border security through the GSF.
Panama calls upon the international community to move beyond voluntary contributions toward more permanent solutions such as burden-sharing using UN-assessed contributions. We believe the UNSC’s role must transition from just an observation to active stabilization, ensuring that the Transitional Presidential Council can successfully lead Haiti toward elections, without interference from corrupt politicians. Panama stands firm in their decision to order the GSF to protect the people and for the removal of arms from the region. Words are no longer enough. Every day of complacency deepens the injustice faced by the people of Haiti. Their suffering demands justice and justice demands action.
