Citizen-Centered Approaches to State and Market: Escaping the Crisis Trap: New Options for Haiti
Summary — This report analyzes Haiti's reconstruction efforts following the 2010 earthquake, highlighting the shortcomings of international aid and the lack of Haitian ownership. It proposes a shift towards citizen-centered approaches, focusing on building institutions, fostering economic opportunities, and transitioning away from aid dependency.
Key Findings
- Lack of Haitian ownership over the relief and reconstruction agenda.
- Failure to invest in and empower Haitian government, business, and civil society.
- Failure of design and planning to match the Haitian context.
- Lack of accountability and transparency in the use of funds.
- Failure to get the scale right.
Full Description
This case study examines the challenges and opportunities facing Haiti in the aftermath of the 2010 earthquake. It reflects on the historical and political contexts, the long record of failed external support, and the most recent attempt to "Build Back Better." The report argues that Haiti should be viewed through an "opportunity lens," revealing a country and people with great assets and real potential, including promising growth sectors, strong social capital, an education sector oriented towards marketable skills, a diaspora actively involved in Haiti's development, and an advantageous geographic location. It recommends opening a national dialogue, focusing on institutions, fostering economic opportunities, and transitioning away from aid.