The STIMPACK Podcast: Episode S3.E6 – Diego Da Rin (Intl. Crisis Group) on Haiti’s Security Crisis

Release Date: March 13, 2025

Hosts: Jeff Frazier
Guest: Diego Darin, Analyst at the International Crisis Group

Introduction

In the sixth episode of Season 3 of The STIMPACK Podcast, host Jeff Frazier welcomes Diego Darin from the International Crisis Group (ICG) to discuss the escalating security crisis in Haiti. This episode delves deep into the complexities of Haiti's current situation, exploring the roles of local gangs, international interventions, and the broader socio-political landscape affecting the nation.

Background of Diego Darin

Diego Darin, a 31-year-old analyst at ICG, brings a wealth of experience in conflict resolution and research. Born in Bogotá, Colombia, Diego is the first generation in his family from the capital. His roots trace back to Popayán in the El Cauca department, a region historically affected by armed conflict involving groups like the FARC. Diego's academic journey includes studies in philosophy, law, and social sciences with a focus on Latin American history, shaping his profound understanding of conflict dynamics and resolution.

Notable Quote:

“I wanted to do something that would have some impact. I was always attracted by working in conflict resolution.”
— Diego Darin [02:13]

Early Career and Path to the International Crisis Group

Diego's initial foray into journalism and research in Colombia provided him with firsthand exposure to conflict zones. In 2018, while working as a journalist for La Silla Huasia during Colombia’s presidential campaign, he focused on post-conflict issues following the 2006 FARC peace agreement. His transition to the International Crisis Group was motivated by a desire to engage in impactful work beyond academia. Six months after the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moïse, Diego joined ICG, dedicating his expertise to analyzing and addressing Haiti's multifaceted security challenges.

Notable Quote:

“I was completely obsessed since the first day. I started understanding, well, trying to understand some things...”
— Diego Darin [08:35]

Understanding Haiti's Security Crisis

Diego provides an in-depth analysis of Haiti's security landscape, highlighting the limitations and challenges faced by international interventions. He discusses the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS), a proposed initiative aimed at bolstering Haiti's National Police to combat pervasive gang violence.

Key Points:

1. History of International Interventions:

   • Reference to MINUSTAH (Mission des Nations Unies pour la stabilisation en Haïti) which operated from 2004 to 2017.
   • MINUSTAH successfully reduced violence and gang power but faced significant criticism for human rights abuses, including sexual violence and the introduction of cholera.

2. The MSS Initiative:

   • Proposed as a successor to MINUSTAH, MSS intended to be a multinational security support mission rather than a traditional UN peacekeeping operation.
   • Focused on providing strategic support to Haiti’s security forces rather than direct engagement with gangs.

3. Challenges and Shortcomings:

   • Initial deployment of 400 Kenyan police officers proved insufficient against gangs controlling 90% of the capital, Port-au-Prince.
   • Financial constraints hindered the MSS’s effectiveness, with the estimated annual cost at $600 million but securing less than $100 million.

Notable Quote:

“Most of the dollars are supposed to come from the U.S. but there’s been all sorts of political issues around getting that money to flow properly…”
— Diego Darin [17:34]

Fieldwork and Firsthand Observations

Diego recounts his recent field trip to Haiti, emphasizing the stark socio-economic divides and the brutal realities faced by residents in Port-au-Prince. He highlights the dualism within the city—where affluent areas coexist with impoverished neighborhoods under gang control.

Key Observations:

• Socio-economic Disparities:

  “There is this other universe, completely disconnected, which is Petionville, up in the hills where there are expensive bars and clubs...”
  — Diego Darin [22:34]

• Humanitarian Concerns:

  “The most difficult thing is to leave Haiti and watch Port-au-Prince burn while knowing people are stuck there in horrible conditions.”
  — Diego Darin [21:15]

• Public Sentiment and Fear: Many Haitians are traumatized by gang violence, including instances of extreme brutality. The populace remains deeply skeptical of any negotiations with gangs due to their violent history and ties to political elites.

Analysis of Current Challenges and Potential Escalations

Diego outlines the precarious situation in Haiti, where underfunded and understaffed international missions struggle to contain powerful gangs. He underscores that without substantial support, the MSS is unlikely to achieve its objectives, leading to worsening conditions.

Key Points:

1. Insufficient Funding and Support:

   • The MSS lacks the necessary resources to make a significant impact, with funding far below what was projected.

2. Gang Dynamics:

   • Gangs, while controlling large portions of the capital, are facing internal fatigue and a desire for change. However, their objectives remain complex, balancing aggression with strategic negotiations to avoid international backlash.

3. Potential for Further Decline:

   • Diego warns of scenarios where increased gang power could lead to governments being forced to negotiate, potentially undermining sovereignty and stability.

Notable Quote:

“The international community hasn’t stepped up to give the funds… the situation can cross a threshold that will make huge headlines.”
— Diego Darin [19:32]

Recommendations and Path Forward

Diego advocates for a multifaceted approach to address Haiti’s security crisis, emphasizing that military interventions alone are insufficient. He calls for comprehensive strategies that include:

1. Strengthening Local Security Forces:

   • Ensuring that Haiti’s National Police are adequately funded, trained, and equipped to handle gang-related threats.

2. Addressing Corruption and Impunity:

   • Tackling systemic corruption is crucial, as it fuels the power and influence of gangs.

3. Implementing DDR Packages:

   • Demobilize, Disarm, and Reintegrate (DDR) packages should focus on community-based solutions that involve victims and ensure justice and reparations.

4. Political Reforms and Elections:

   • Establishing a secure environment is a prerequisite for fair and effective elections. Diego suggests phased or regional elections to gradually restore democratic processes without exacerbating conflict.

Notable Quote:

“Most of these groups were created and controlled by the elites to serve their own interests. So Barbecue is just the top of the iceberg.”
— Diego Darin [32:00]

Future Outlook and Closing Thoughts

Diego remains cautiously pessimistic about the immediate future of Haiti's security situation, highlighting the need for urgent and substantial intervention. He stresses that without concerted international support and internal reforms, Haiti's conditions are likely to deteriorate further, making comprehensive peace and stability an elusive goal.

Closing Remark:

“This is doable… you can subdue them if you have enough support.”
— Diego Darin [41:37]

Conclusion

Jeff Frazier and Diego Darin provide a sobering yet insightful exploration of Haiti’s security crisis. The discussion underscores the complexity of achieving lasting peace in Haiti, the critical shortcomings of current international efforts, and the urgent need for a holistic approach that goes beyond military intervention. For listeners seeking to understand the intricate dynamics at play in Haiti, this episode offers invaluable perspectives and expert analysis.

Listen to the full episode here.
Access the detailed report by the International Crisis Group here.