The GSF Takes Over After the MMAS

The Gang Repression Force (GSF) is now in action in Haiti, succeeding the Multinational Security Support Mission (MMAS). Its establishment was authorized by United Nations Security Council Resolution 2793 for an initial period of 12 months. The GSF plans for a strength of 5,500 members and 50 civilian employees to combat gangs and protect essential infrastructure. For now, no new deployments have been made, and the personnel remain those of the former mission. The GSF published its press statement on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, confirming the official start of its operations. It intervenes with a strengthened mandate, including conducting intelligence-based operations, protecting airports, ports, hospitals, and schools, as well as supporting unhindered humanitarian access. It can act independently or jointly with the Haitian National Police (PNH) and the Armed Forces (FAd’H), while respecting international law and human rights standards. A central element of the mission is the creation of the United Nations Support Office in Haiti (UNSOH), which is to provide logistical, medical, and operational support. This structure is expected to be fully functional within six months and will support the GSF in carrying out its operations throughout the territory. As mentioned in the statement, to date, patrols continue without interruption in sensitive areas such as downtown Port-au-Prince, Téléco, Kenscoff, Furcy, and Petit-Rivière de l’Artibonite. The mission currently relies on personnel inherited from the MMAS, and no additional reinforcements or new equipment deliveries, apart from armored vehicles recently supplied by the United States, have yet been deployed. The GSF affirms its commitment to strengthening national security, protecting populations, and ensuring the continuity of its operations throughout its mandate. The rapid transition from the MMAS aims to be transparent and to avoid any security vacuum that criminal gangs could exploit. Will this mission achieve the hoped-for success? However, criticisms are not lacking regarding the arrival of this new foreign force, considering the failures of previous missions such as the MMAS. The Editorial Team