Smith Augustin Appeals to OAS for Greater International Support for Haiti

Washington, D.C. — On Thursday, April 10, 2025, Haitian Presidential Advisor Smith Augustin led a high-level diplomatic mission to Washington, D.C., and New York to intensify regional cooperation in response to Haiti’s worsening security and humanitarian crisis. The delegation included Myrtha Désulmé, Haiti’s Representative to the Organization of American States (OAS), Mathias Pierre, Chief of Staff, and Arald Julien, Advisor on Electoral Affairs.

During a key meeting in Washington, Augustin met with Luis Almagro, the Secretary General of the OAS, to outline the gravity of the Haitian crisis and advocate for urgent international assistance.

The Transnational Nature of Haiti’s Crisis

Advisor Augustin presented a detailed overview of the dire security situation in Haiti, emphasizing the transnational dimensions of armed violence. He warned that the gangs destabilizing Haiti are not isolated groups but part of international criminal networks engaged in arms trafficking, narcotics smuggling, and illicit finance.

“Haiti’s insecurity is not just a local issue,” Augustin asserted. “It is fueled by transnational systems that threaten regional stability.”

A Call for Reinforced Multilateral Support

In light of these concerns, Augustin made an impassioned appeal for increased support from international partners, especially in alignment with the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres’ request for $900 million. These funds are earmarked to support the full and effective deployment of 2,500 personnel under the Multi.

The Haitian Tribune
Friday, April 11, 2025, By Jean Claude Charles | Political Affairs Correspondent