In a significant shift, Barbados has decided to reverse its earlier decision to send troops to Haiti, citing escalating security concerns and the lack of a global strategic plan to effectively address the crisis. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Kerrie Symmonds, announced that the Caribbean nation would now focus on providing technical assistance instead of military personnel.
In a statement to Barbados TODAY, Symmonds expressed serious concerns about the deteriorating security situation in Haiti, emphasizing that the necessary global coordination has yet to materialize. “The environment in Haiti has become more dangerous, and we can’t send people into harm’s way without a clear plan,” Symmonds stated. “We’re mindful of this [increasing danger], and you don’t want to send people in harm’s way unnecessarily. The truth is, there hasn’t been the level of strategic planning globally that we would have liked.”
Originally, Barbados had committed to sending troops as part of a United Nations-backed multinational peacekeeping mission under the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) umbrella. However, the situation in Haiti has continued to worsen, prompting the reversal of their commitment.
Symmonds emphasized that Barbados would continue to provide crucial technical assistance, such as specialized medical aid and training support, to assist in addressing Haiti’s needs. However, the deployment of military personnel will no longer be pursued. He also highlighted the challenges faced by the Kenyan-led mission, which had anticipated continued support from the U.S., but delays and disruptions in the U.S. political landscape have stalled international efforts.
“The situation in Haiti cannot be put on pause,” Symmonds remarked. “If we have to wait until January 20 for a new administration to come into place in the United States, so be it.” He expressed frustration with the lack of tangible progress and noted that discussions surrounding Haiti’s crisis have gone silent since the change in U.S. leadership.
While Barbados pulls back its plans, other countries have begun to deploy personnel to Haiti. Last week, 83 security personnel from Central America, including an advance team of eight soldiers from El Salvador and 75 military police officers from Guatemala, arrived as part of the international response.
As global efforts to address the crisis in Haiti continue to evolve, Barbados’ decision reflects the growing concerns around security risks and the need for a more coordinated and strategic global approach to stabilizing the nation.
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