Security Council

5192^nd Meeting (PM)

SECURITY COUNCIL EXTENDS HAITIMISSION UNTIL 24 JUNE,

WITH FURTHER RENEWALS PLANNED

Resolution 1601 (2005) Adopted Unanimously;

Secretary-General’s Reports Proposes Increased Troop-Level, 12 Month Extension

Determining that the situation in Haiti continues to constitute a threat to international peace and security in the region, the Security Council this afternoon extended the mandate of the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) until 24 June 2005, with the intention to renew it for further periods.

Unanimously adopting resolution 1601 (2005) under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, the Council extended the Mission as established by resolution 1542 (2004) on 30 April 2004, when MINUSTAH was authorized to ensure a secure and stable environment within which the constitutional and political process in Haiti could take place, to assist the Transitional Government in reforming the Haitian National Police, and to assist with comprehensive and sustainable disarmament, demobilization and reintegration programmes, among other things.

Also by the text, the Council welcomed the Secretary-General’s report on the matter (document S/2005/313), which states that, over the past few months, MINUSTAH has made progress towards creating an environment in which the political transition can unfold.  This progress remains fragile, however, and key challenges lie ahead, as the political transition enters a crucial phase.  Further outreach by the Transitional Government is essential to obtain the confidence and support of the population.  Also required is strong and coordinated support by the international community.

The visit of the Security Council mission to Haiti from 13 to 16 April, in conjunction with the Ad Hoc Advisory Group on Haiti of the Economic and Social Council, represented an important demonstration of commitment to addressing the needs of Haiti, the report states.  Among welcome developments, the Secretary-General mentions the launching of the electoral process and the national dialogue, and signs of improvement in the security situation following successful operations by MINUSTAH and the Haitian National Police, with a view to curbing the activities of illegal armed groups and reducing their activities.  However, unless real progress can be achieved in the disarmament, demobilization and reintegration programme, the security situation will remain uncertain.

In connection with the elections, the Secretary-General calls on the Transitional Government to address the concerns raised regarding the electoral law so as to maintain the independence of the Electoral Council and to create an even playing field for all the candidates.  Political leaders in Haiti have a special responsibility to ensure the success of both the national dialogue and elections.

The Transitional Government and the leaders of political parties and civil society must ensure that these processes are sustainable and result in a realistic and achievable vision for the future of Haiti, the first step being the installation of an elected government.  The Secretary-General also urges the international community to redouble its efforts to support the electoral process in Haiti, and in particular calls on the donor community to ensure that the necessary financial means are available.  He welcomes the offer of Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to provide technical assistance to the electoral process.

The Secretary-General proposes that the mission deploy an additional infantry battalion to respond to the “hot spots” during the pre-electoral period; the troop level be raised to 7,500; the number of police be increased to 1,900; and the mission be extended for 12 months.

The meeting was called to order at 4.20 p.m. and adjourned at 4.25 p.m.

Council Resolution

The full text of Council resolution 1601 (2005) reads, as follows:

“The Security Council,

“Reaffirming resolutions 1576 (2004) of 29 November 2004 and 1542 (2004) of 30 April 2004, and recalling resolution 1529 (2004) of 29 February 2004, relevant statements by its President, as well as the Security Council’s report on its Mission to Haiti from 13 to 16 April (S/2005/302),

“Determining that the situation in Haiti continues to constitute a threat to international peace and security in the region,

“Acting under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations, as described in section 1 of operative paragraph 7 of resolution 1542 (2004),

“1.   Decides to extend the mandate of MINUSTAH, as contained in resolution 1542 (2004), until 24 June 2005, with the intention to renew for further periods;

“2.   Welcomes the Secretary-General’s report S/2005/313;

“3.   Decides to remain seized of the matter.”

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