Can A UN Protectorate Provide Resolution to Haitian Instability?
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By: Andrew Wickes
Haiti remains an unstable nation despite multiple transnational interventions in the last thirty years. After overthrowing the French in 1804, Haiti has vacillated between periods of independence and subservience to foreign nations. Political instability and harsh poverty implored the UN to begin a series of peacekeeping missions to help stabilize the nation around the turn of the twenty-first century. Political and economic instability were only heightened when the devastating 2010 Earthquake destroyed much of the infrastructure throughout the country. Despite thousands of personnel and billions of dollars in aid, Haitian society continued to struggle with staggering poverty and poor living conditions.
An ongoing gang war has further destabilized Haiti. Starting in 2020, gangs have gained territorial control over many different towns and neighborhoods throughout Haiti. These
gangs have prevailed over the police, causing government leaders to flee. In 2024, the UN deployed personnel to augment the police force and assist Haitian political leaders with regaining control of the country. As of February 2026, gangs continue to exercise de facto control over various portions of the island amongst government instability.
This Note details the history of Haitian social struggles and the transnational interventions that have so far failed to materially improve conditions. Weak Haitian institutions that limit access to justice and unprepared, unfocused UN personnel are common themes that pervade throughout these attempts. In past interventions, the UN has made efforts to respect Haitian sovereignty. But does the crisis in Haiti warrant the UN’s temporary governance over the country? This Note outlines a possible solution to Haitian instability by forming a standardized, modular "UN Protectorate" template based on the UN Mission in Kosovo.
