Haitians in need of support: how the poorest country in the western hemisphere has fallen into chaos
Haiti, a country that has suffered from a history of colonization and exploitation, is currently experiencing a devastating crisis. Over the past year and a half, violence and despair have engulfed the nation. Gangs have taken control of Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince, resulting in a mass exodus of its population. Kidnappings, robberies, rapes, and murders have become commonplace. The overwhelmed police force is unable to maintain law and order, leading to vigilantism. These security issues are compounded by a severe humanitarian crisis, with up to 97% of the population in some areas experiencing extreme hunger.
Amidst this chaos, Haiti finds itself without any elected officials. Ariel Henry, the acting leader since the controversial assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021, has been unable to restore stability. With no popular support or legitimacy, Henry has called for foreign intervention. However, due to past negative experiences with international forces, many Haitians are skeptical of this solution. The United Nations peacekeeping mission, which took place from 2004 to 2017, not only failed to bring stability but also brought disease and committed acts of sexual exploitation and violence. Despite these concerns, a majority of Haitians today would still support a multinational force to intervene.
There is a potential plan in motion to address Haiti’s crisis. Since the United States is unwilling to take on the responsibility, a coalition force led by Kenya and supported by Caribbean nations is being considered. While Kenya has significant peacekeeping experience, there are concerns about their domestic abuse of power. Critics argue that a small-scale multinational force may not have a significant impact on security and could inadvertently legitimize an unpopular leader like Henry.
Various sectors within Haiti, including civil society, politicians, former officials, and businesses, have been advocating for a political transition. The Caribbean intergovernmental body Caricom has attempted to broker discussions, but its capacity and commitment have been called into question. There was also controversy when Caricom’s statement on the crisis criticized calls for Henry’s resignation. It is evident that significant pressure is necessary for Henry to relinquish power, but it remains unclear whether the United States is willing to apply that pressure.
Haiti’s political class has failed its people, with several former presidents and prime ministers facing sanctions for corruption and crime. Henry’s perceived advantages for the US lie in his presence as a potential stabilizing force and his willingness to cooperate with mass deportations. The issue of deportations has caused outrage, with the US envoy to Haiti resigning in protest of the “inhumane” policy. While deportation rates have decreased, flights to Haiti continue despite the US urging its citizens to leave for safety reasons. This approach is not only inhumane but also unconscionable.
Haiti’s situation is dire, and it requires more than a superficial mission to address the deep-rooted problems. Instead of solely relying on a security force, those offering assistance must listen to the voices of Haitian civil society. Additionally, priority should be given to facilitating a political transition in the country. Only through comprehensive support and genuine collaboration can Haiti truly recover and rebuild.
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