UN-Backed Force Struggles to Reclaim Haitian Provinces from Gang Control
Despite ongoing operations by the UN-backed Gang Suppression Force initiated in June 2026, armed gangs continue to retain control over three of Haiti’s ten provinces. The persistent insecurity is threatening to derail national elections planned for later this year. While the force has secured parts of Port-au-Prince, the "Viv Barbecue" alliance and other paramilitary groups maintain significant territorial enclaves, leading to continued humanitarian strain and sporadic clashes with specialized police units.