Haiti, United Nations extend cooperation framework through 2028

Haiti and the United Nations have agreed to extend their Cooperation Framework through Dec. 31, 2028, following a high-level meeting that reaffirmed the country's commitment to strengthening security, democratic governance and sustainable development.

The decision was made during a meeting of the Steering Committee of the United Nations Cooperation Framework held July 30 at the Karibe Hotel. The meeting was co-chaired by Haiti's Minister of Planning and External Cooperation, Sandra Paulemon, and Nicole Boni Kouassi, the United Nations resident coordinator in Haiti.

Government ministers, representatives of U.N. agencies, members of the diplomatic corps, civil society organizations and technical and financial partners attended the meeting, which included a review of the framework's 2025 progress and discussions on priorities for the next phase.

Paulemon said Haiti continues to face significant challenges that require coordinated action between the government and the United Nations.

"The Cooperation Framework should not be seen as just another document," Paulemon said. "It constitutes the common platform through which the Government and the United Nations organize collective action aligned with national priorities."

Kouassi praised the Haitian government's leadership in guiding the partnership with the United Nations and said the steering committee remains the principal body responsible for ensuring U.N. support aligns with the country's development priorities.

She described the committee as a forum for reviewing progress, addressing challenges and making joint decisions on future priorities.

During the meeting, Paulemon said restoring security remains the government's top priority. She highlighted ongoing initiatives, including the implementation of the National Commission for Disarmament, Demobilization, Reintegration and Rehabilitation; the National Program for Stabilization and Economic, Social and Territorial Recovery; strengthening essential social services; protecting human rights; combating gender-based violence; reinforcing democratic governance; and supporting Haiti's democratic transition.

Participants reviewed the results achieved under the current framework, assessed lessons learned and approved a new programmatic framework aligned with the government's priorities and Haiti's current social and political realities.

Paulemon also reaffirmed Haiti's commitment to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, saying the government is continuing efforts to reduce poverty and food insecurity, improve access to health care, education, clean water and infrastructure, and strengthen women's empowerment and community resilience.

She acknowledged, however, that Sustainable Development Goal 16 — promoting peace, justice and strong institutions — has become fundamental to achieving the country's broader development objectives.

Paulemon also noted progress toward gender equality, saying five women currently serve in Haiti's Council of Ministers in key government portfolios.

Closing the meeting, Paulemon expressed hope that extending the Cooperation Framework would result in stronger collaboration and greater impact.

She said the Ministry of Planning and External Cooperation would continue coordinating efforts with government ministries, national institutions, local authorities, civil society, the private sector, the Haitian diaspora, the United Nations and international development partners to advance the country's priorities.