BBC News Online explains the issues behind the unrest in the Caribbean state of Haiti, which led to the resignation and departure of President Jean-Bertrand Aristide...
News Source: BBC News
The United Nations Security Council has voted unanimously to send in a multinational military force to restore law and order. That will be followed by a stabilisation mission to support a peaceful transfer of power.
Street protests led to a rebellion which forced President Aristide out
Soldiers from the US, Canada and France are already in Haiti and are expected to form the heart of the UN operation.
Armed gangs still roam the streets of Haiti's cities - some saying they are rebels and others who support former President Jean-Bertrand Aristide.
But the main rebel leader, Guy Philippe, has welcomed the deployment of US marines and correspondents say the various militia are not expected to challenge the international forces.
The future remains uncertain both for who may take political power and for Mr Aristide. He has fled to the Central African Republic, but it is unclear where he will seek to settle.
Full Story: How bad is the situation?
