G7 calls for democratic elections in Haiti, political reforms in Cuba
Key Points(5)
- Foreign ministers from the Group of Seven (G7) nations have called for credible democratic elections in Haiti and significant political and economic reforms in Cuba, citing growing concerns over instability, humanitarian conditions and human rights in both Caribbean countries.
- The calls followed a meeting in Paris, France, on November 9 and 10, attended by foreign ministers from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States, along with the European Union's High Representative.
- In a joint declaration issued November 11, the ministers welcomed the extension of the mandate of the Gang Suppression Force (GSF) in Haiti through March 2027, describing it as an important step toward restoring security and stability in the country.
- They also supported the renewal of United Nations sanctions targeting individuals and entities accused of threatening Haiti's peace, security and stability.
- The G7 called for increased international assistance to strengthen the Haitian National Police and the Haitian Armed Forces, reinforce the rule of law and combat impunity.
Foreign ministers from the Group of Seven (G7) nations have called for credible democratic elections in Haiti and significant political and economic reforms in Cuba, citing growing concerns over instability, humanitarian conditions and human rights in both Caribbean countries.
The calls followed a meeting in Paris, France, on November 9 and 10, attended by foreign ministers from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States, along with the European Union's High Representative.
In a joint declaration issued November 11, the ministers welcomed the extension of the mandate of the Gang Suppression Force (GSF) in Haiti through March 2027, describing it as an important step toward restoring security and stability in the country.
They also supported the renewal of United Nations sanctions targeting individuals and entities accused of threatening Haiti's peace, security and stability.
The G7 called for increased international assistance to strengthen the Haitian National Police and the Haitian Armed Forces, reinforce the rule of law and combat impunity.
The ministers also urged all security personnel operating in Haiti to prioritize civilian protection during security operations.
Turning to Haiti's political transition, the G7 emphasized the importance of holding democratic elections, noting that the first round of voting has been postponed until July 2027.
While acknowledging progress by the Haitian government and the Provisional Electoral Council in preparing for elections, the ministers stressed the need to ensure the credibility and integrity of the electoral process.
They also raised concerns about the potential participation of individuals under international sanctions in Haiti's political process, warning that such involvement could undermine accountability and public confidence.
"The people of Haiti have a right to determine their future through credible democratic processes and leaders who serve the public interest with integrity," the declaration stated.
The ministers expressed continued concern over Haiti's worsening humanitarian crisis, widespread violence and reports of human rights violations.
They called on the international community to increase financial contributions to the UN Trust Fund, noting that the success of the UN-mandated security mission depends on sustained international funding.
The G7 also emphasized the importance of supporting Haiti's economic recovery through cooperation with international financial institutions and other multilateral partners.
The ministers welcomed the World Bank's Compact with Haitian authorities as a framework for assessing reforms and strengthening accountability.
G7 urges Cuba to pursue political and economic reforms
The G7 also expressed concern about Cuba's deepening economic crisis and humanitarian challenges, particularly shortages of food, fuel and medicine.
The ministers called for improvements to humanitarian aid delivery mechanisms to ensure assistance reaches vulnerable communities across the island.
They urged Cuban authorities to implement significant political and economic reforms aimed at improving living conditions, protecting human rights and responding to the aspirations of the Cuban people.
The declaration specifically called for steps toward multiparty democratic governance, press freedom and freedom of expression and association.
The ministers also urged the Cuban government to release individuals who have been arbitrarily detained and encouraged constructive, inclusive dialogue to address the country's ongoing challenges.
The joint declaration reflects the G7's continued focus on political stability, democratic governance and humanitarian assistance in the Caribbean, particularly as Haiti struggles with insecurity and a prolonged political transition, while Cuba faces mounting economic pressures.
