Universal Peace Federation Statement on the Crisis in Haiti
24 July, 2025
The Universal Peace Federation (UPF) expresses its deep concern over the ongoing deterioration of the humanitarian and political situation in Haiti. A nation with deep spiritual traditions and a resilient population now faces one of the gravest crises in its history. The breakdown of governance, escalating gang violence, and widespread human suffering call for urgent and coordinated global action.
Since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021, Haiti has struggled without a stable and functioning government. Thousands have been killed, and tens of thousands displaced. Families now shelter in makeshift camps, fuel stations, and schools, while many undertake perilous journeys by sea in search of safety. Nearly half the population faces acute food insecurity, health infrastructure is overwhelmed, and a resurgence of cholera has compounded an already critical public health emergency.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has described the situation as “a fast-deteriorating humanitarian catastrophe” requiring immediate international response (UN News, July 17, 2025). In many communities, schools have become overcrowded shelters—classrooms now serving as temporary homes and informal learning spaces. Despite these hardships, many displaced families remain committed to education and dignity as sources of strength (UN News, July 19, 2025).
UPF upholds the inherent dignity of every human being and the central importance of the family. The crisis in Haiti reflects not only a political failure but a deep moral and social emergency. We call upon the international community to respond with urgency, compassion, and strategic resolve.
We particularly encourage Haiti’s religious and traditional leaders—Catholic, Protestant, Vodou, and others—to unite in an interfaith appeal for peace. Their collective moral leadership can be a vital bridge to reconciliation and healing. UPF stands ready to support interreligious dialogue and cultural engagement aimed at reaching disaffected youth and restoring social trust.
Addressing the root causes of violence requires urgent investment in youth education, employment, and moral development. Many young people are drawn into armed groups due to poverty, hopelessness, and lack of opportunity. We call on governments, international agencies, and philanthropic organizations to support community-based rehabilitation programs that offer practical pathways to peace—such as vocational training, spiritual mentorship, and transitional employment.
In addition to long-term solutions, we call for immediate humanitarian assistance. The people of Haiti urgently need food, medical care, clean water, and shelter—as well as access to functioning schools, trauma recovery services, and safe public spaces. Civil society must not turn away. We urge our Ambassadors for Peace across the Americas and the Caribbean to advocate for increased humanitarian aid, to welcome displaced Haitians with compassion, and to support scholarships and educational opportunities for Haitian youth.
UPF draws upon a longstanding history of engagement in Haiti. Through our Religious Youth Service (RYS), founded by Dr. Hak Ja Han, and her late husband Dr.Sun Myung Moon , UPF has supported interfaith, volunteer-based humanitarian projects in the country. Following the devastating 2010 earthquake, UPF and RYS mobilized emergency relief — providing food, clean water, clothing, and medicine — while building bonds of peace and solidarity among youth from diverse backgrounds.
We also recognize the leadership of H.E. Jocelerme Privert, who served as Interim President of Haiti from 2016 to 2017. As a recipient of the UPF Leadership and Good Governance Award, President Privert exemplified commitment to national unity and democratic transition during a period of political uncertainty. His example continues to inspire those working toward stability and reconciliation.
We further affirm our appreciation for our growing collaboration with FOPREL (Forum of Presidents of Legislative Branches of Central America and the Caribbean Basin). Their dedication to democratic governance, human rights, and regional solidarity aligns with UPF’s mission to build peace through principled leadership and shared values. We look forward to deepening this partnership to meet the urgent needs of the Haitian people.
Despite centuries of adversity, the Haitian people continue to demonstrate extraordinary courage, creativity, and spiritual vitality. UPF believes in Haiti’s capacity to recover and rebuild—given sustained support, genuine partnership, and a renewed commitment to peace. Let us respond not only with policy but with conscience; not only with aid but with solidarity.
In this International Year of Peace and Trust, and as part of UPF’s 100-Day Campaign leading to the UN International Day of Peace on September 21, we reaffirm our commitment to stand with Haiti. Through compassion, courage, and shared responsibility, we can help transform suffering into renewal—and fear into hope.
Mario Salinas
South and Central America Secretary General
Universal Peace Federation
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