Haiti: Switzerland adopts UN sanctions
Bern, 16.12.2022 - On 16 December, the Federal Council introduced coercive measures in connection with the ongoing crisis and the persistent and destabilising crime by armed gangs in Haiti. In doing so, the Federal Council is implementing in Swiss law the sanctions adopted by the UN Security Council in Resolution 2653 (2022). The corresponding ordinance will enter into force on 16 December.
In unanimously adopting Resolution 2653 (2022) on 21 October, the UN Security Council ordered the freezing of assets, a ban on entry and transit, and a targeted arms embargo on individuals, companies or entities whose actions threaten the peace, security or stability of Haiti. One of the most influential gang leaders, Jimmy Cherizier (also known as ‘Barbecue'), is currently on the UN sanctions list.
The Security Council has called for an immediate end to the violence, criminal activities and human rights violations that undermine the peace, stability and security of Haiti and the region. Specifically, the Security Council cites abductions, sexual and gender-based violence, trafficking in persons, the smuggling of migrants, homicides, extrajudicial killings and recruitment of children by armed groups and criminal networks. It also urges all political actors to engage in constructive negotiations to break the political deadlock and allow inclusive, free and fair parliamentary and presidential elections to be held as soon as the security situation on the ground allows. Switzerland has unreservedly endorsed these demands.
In introducing the Ordinance of 16 December 2022, the Federal Council is adopting the binding provisions of Resolution 2653 (2022). The measures described will enter into force at 6pm on 16 December 2022.
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EAER Communications
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The Federal Council
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Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research
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