PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – The European Union (EU) and the Organization of American States (OAS) officially launched today, in the presence of Haiti’s minister of foreign affairs and worship, Raina Forbin, a project aimed at strengthening the operational capacities of the Haitian National Police (HNP) through the establishment of five Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) in Port-au-Prince, as part of the ongoing fight against armed gangs and organized violence.
This initiative will help ensure a sustained police presence, improve response times, and enhance deterrence against criminal activities. It seeks not only to consolidate state control in territories previously under gang influence and ensure a permanent security presence to prevent their reoccupation, but also to create the conditions necessary for the lasting restoration of peace and stability.
During the official launch, managing director for the Americas at the European External Action Service (EEAS), Delphine Pronk, stated:
“At this critical moment for Haiti, the European Union considers it essential to contribute to the creation of a safe and secure operational environment. The establishment of five Forward Operating Bases represents a concrete contribution by the European Union to improving security conditions on the ground in Haiti and strengthening the operational capacities of the Haitian National Police in the fight against armed gangs and organised violence.”
Speaking in turn, Haiti’s minister of foreign affairs and Worship, Raina Forbin, emphasised that this initiative is part of a broader vision aimed at restoring state authority and consolidating peace:
“The Haitian government welcomes the launch of this initiative, which will strengthen the operational capacities of the Haitian National Police and contribute to restoring state authority in areas affected by gang violence. While acknowledging the continued support of the European Union and the Organization of American States, the Government reaffirms that sustainable security cannot be achieved through force alone. It must also be supported by investments in youth, social inclusion, and economic development. In this regard, initiatives launched by prime minister, Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, such as the ‘Kay Jèn yo / Youth Centers Program’ and the creation of a Youth Reintegration and Displaced Persons Recapitalization Fund, seek to provide alternatives to violence and lay the foundations for lasting peace based on hope, opportunity, and dignity.”
Echoing these remarks, OAS secretary general Albert R. Ramdin reaffirmed the Organization’s commitment to supporting Haiti in its stabilisation and institutional-strengthening efforts:
“At a time when Haiti faces profound and complex challenges, this partnership between the OAS and the European Union represents an important step in the right direction. It reflects confidence in Haiti’s institutions, confidence in the resilience of the Haitian people, and our shared determination to support a safer, more stable, and more hopeful future for Haiti. Let us move forward together to help restore security, strengthen institutions, and build the foundations for lasting peace and stability.”
Beyond its immediate security objectives, the initiative also places particular emphasis on the long-term strengthening of the institutional capacities of the Haitian National Police. Investments in infrastructure, operational readiness, and training are expected to contribute to sustainable improvements in public security and state presence throughout the Haitian capital and beyond.
The project comes at a critical time as preparations continue for the full deployment of the international security support mission authorised by the United Nations Security Council. The creation of a safe and enabling operational environment, with full respect for human rights, is essential to allow the Haitian National Police and the international mission to conduct coordinated and effective operations in Port-au-Prince.
The European Union and the OAS recognise the impact of transnational illicit flows of drugs and weapons on Haiti’s security situation. They reaffirm their commitment to supporting efforts to restore security and strengthen public institutions. They welcome the Haitian government’s announcements regarding youth reintegration and the recapitalisation of displaced persons, as well as the establishment of the “Kay Jèn yo” Youth Centers. The European Union is exploring opportunities for cooperation in this area.
The EU and the OAS are committed to creating the conditions necessary for lasting stability, effective governance, and improved living conditions for the Haitian people. They will also continue to promote international cooperation and the implementation of regional and global multilateral commitments aimed at curbing illicit arms and drug trafficking and improving security in Haiti.
European Union-funded project:
“Support to the Haitian National Police (HNP) and the Gang Suppression Force (GSF) through Forward Operating Bases.”
- Implementing Partner: Organization of American States (OAS) – Department of Public Security and OAS Office in Haiti.
- Budget: USD11.6 million (€10 million), funded by the European Union’s Foreign Policy Instrument (FPI).
- Duration: 18 months (contract signed in December 2025).
- Expected completion: Mid-2027.
Recognising that security cannot be ensured solely through the use of force, the Haitian government intends to complement this effort with policies promoting social inclusion, education, training, and the economic empowerment of vulnerable populations.
In this regard, transformative initiatives such as the “Kay Jèn yo” Youth Centers Program and the creation of a Youth Reintegration and Displaced Persons Recapitalisation Fund in at least 50 municipalities across Haiti will help strengthen community resilience, provide credible alternatives to violence, and sustainably consolidate state authority in recovered areas.
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