(2021-09) Haiti: A Path to Stability for a Nation in Shock
Summary — The assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021 and subsequent natural disasters have exacerbated Haiti's fragility and humanitarian crisis amidst extreme insecurity. Chronic state failings and ineffective foreign aid deployment are evident, driving instability and migration. International support for prosecuting high-level crimes, police reform, and an inclusive interim government is crucial for restoring stability, rather than rushing to elections.
Key Findings
- Funnel aid to vulnerable people affected by natural disasters, preferably through local civil society, with oversight.
- International backing is needed for prosecuting high-level crimes, including the Moïse assassination and PetroCaribe scandal, and for police reform.
- Support a broad-based, representative, and inclusive interim government, delaying elections until conditions permit credible polls.
- Refrain from further deportations to Haiti to avoid burdening overwhelmed state institutions and communities.
- Strengthen state institutions, including the judiciary, police, and prison service, with foreign backing and close consultation with Haitians.
Full Description
Haiti faces a profound crisis, intensified by the July 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse and August's devastating earthquake and tropical storm. This comes amidst intersecting political, human rights, economic, and humanitarian challenges, exposing chronic state failings and the ineffectiveness of foreign support. Widespread gang violence, controlling over half of Port-au-Prince and disrupting the economy, has led to severe insecurity, internal displacement, and a dire humanitarian situation, with over half the population living on less than $2 a day. The document argues that immediate priorities should be channeling aid through local civil society, investigating high-profile crimes, and implementing police reform. It cautions against rushing elections, advocating instead for a broad-based, inclusive interim government and a participatory constitutional review to build lasting stability and address systemic issues like impunity and corruption.