On October 31st, we are honored to welcome Valerio Bosco, Political Affairs Officer at the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti, since 2008. With extensive experience in UN peacekeeping missions and a deep understanding of international relations, Bosco has worked in various conflict and post-conflict regions, including the Central African Republic, Somalia, Ethiopia, and Haiti. He holds a PhD in the history of international relations from the University of Rome “La Sapienza” and is an esteemed member of the Italian Journalists Association.

Bosco will present a critical talk titled “La transition qui en finit pas” (Haiti’s transition(s) to democracy and stability). This presentation will explore the complex challenges Haiti has faced since its early transition to democracy in 1986, emphasizing the various international, regional, and bilateral efforts aimed at fostering security and political stability over the past three decades.

Key highlights of the talk include:

• Historical Context: An overview of significant initiatives, such as "Uphold Democracy" (1994), MINUSTAH (2004), and the OAS electoral observation mission (2015).
• Recent Developments: A discussion of the UN Security Council's decision in 2019 to adjust the mandate in Haiti amidst a deteriorating security and political landscape, culminating in the tragic assassination of President Jovenel Moise in July 2021.
• Current Crisis: An analysis of ongoing issues, including gang violence, political instability, and socio-economic challenges, particularly following the rise of the Non-UN Multinational Security Support Mission led by Kenya.

Talk Details:

Date: Thursday, October 31st
Time: 3 PM
Location: Coble Hall, Room 306 (801 S Wright St. Champaign IL 61802)

Learn more here