OCNH Reminds States of Their Commitments to Prevent and Sanction Violence

Thursday, October 2, 2025, marked the International Day of Non-Violence. On this occasion, the Organization of Citizens for a New Haiti (OCNH) reminded states of their international commitments to implement necessary measures to prevent and sanction all forms of violence that undermine human dignity.

In a statement, OCNH issued a message to states, reminding them of the importance of combating violence and urging them to « take concrete measures to prevent and sanction all forms of violence that undermine human dignity, by promoting a culture of non-violence through education, awareness, and inclusive public policies, particularly concerning youth and vulnerable populations, and by strengthening international cooperation to build a world founded on peace, justice, and the rule of law. »

On the other hand, the human rights organization took the opportunity to denounce the violence perpetrated by gangs in Haiti, particularly affecting individuals who have suffered forced displacement. « The persistence of physical, structural, or symbolic violence remains a major obstacle to the effective exercise of human rights, » it wrote.

The International Day of Non-Violence is celebrated every October 2nd, the anniversary of the birth of Mahatma Gandhi, leader of India's independence movement and pioneer of the philosophy and strategy of non-violence. The day was designated by the United Nations General Assembly under resolution of June 15, 2007 (A/RES/61/271).