UN peacekeeping mission to Haiti leaves controversial legacy

Abstract

UN military peacekeepers are withdrawing from Haiti after 13 years. The mission (known as MINUSTAH) has been marred by controversy involving allegations of sexual abuse and human rights violations. Operations began in 2004 when widespread violence forced then President Aristide from power. While the mission is credited with stabilizing the country, particularly in the aftermath of the 2010 earthquake, there has been much criticism of the use of force in the restoration of law and order. However, its most controversial legacy relates to the disastrous outbreak of cholera.