In the Security Council meeting today on the United Nations Stabilisation Mission in Haiti, Norway supported the main findings of the Secretary General’s report to the council, and highlighted the urgency of stepping up efforts to protecting the civilians. The internally displaced people are particularly vulnerable, and there is a need to step up efforts to protect vulnerable groups, particularly from sexual violence and trafficking.
Norway's Deputy Permanent Representative Mona Juul told the Council that Norway is encouraged by the efforts undertaken so far by the Haiti National Police, MINUSTAH and local actors. Ambassador Juul also highlighted the urgent need for further strengthening the local police capacity and the Haitian rule of law structures.
Haiti’s own leadership in the process ahead, as the Haitians need to rebuild the future of their own country, was emphasised.
Immediately following the earthquake that struck Haiti on 12 January, Norway provided USD 35 million in emergency relief. At the International donors’ conference on March 31st, Norway announced long-term assistance to Haiti by an additional USD 100 million over the next four years within three areas:
(1) Disaster preparedness and sustainable rural development;
(2) Political dialogue and confidence-building; and
(3) Protection of women and children from violence, sexual abuse and trafficking.
Read Norway's statement in full here.