Haiti: Policy Solutions

Sustainable, long-term development coupled with economic reform policies

Haiti’s economy was in a state of crisis long before the earthquake. More than 80 percent of the population lived under the poverty level, earning less than $2 per day. Policies must address sustainable, long-term development coupled with economic reform policies rather than just short-term reconstruction. Read more>>

Transparent and Haitian-led use of donor funds

U.S. citizens have donated millions of dollars for Haiti. Aid agencies, including MCC, have committed to long-term support. U.S., Canadian, European and other governments have pledged millions in foreign assistance. These committed funds must be used in programs that are Haitian-led and in a transparent manner to ensure that every dollar is truly used for the relief, reconstruction and long-term sustainable development of Haiti. Read more>>

Clarified mandate and length of stay of U.S. troops

In the wake of the earthquake the U.S. deployed 22,000 military personnel to Haiti. As of March 15, 2010 there were 8,000 U.S. troops in Haiti in addition to the 12,000 United Nations peacekeepers.

The military was perhaps one of the only institutions with the capacity to respond quickly and effectively to immediate infrastructure needs following the calamity in the country. However, the militarization of disaster relief and foreign aid raises serious concerns. Haiti is no stranger to foreign military intervention and the U.S. has militarily intervened in the country three times over the course of Haiti’s history. Given its observations of the use of military personnel in Haiti and other countries, and based on the concerns of Haitian partners, MCC is wary of the presence of foreign troops in Haiti, including the presence of UN peacekeepers. The military presence in Haiti should clarify its mission, rules of engagement and length of stay. Read more>>

Compassionate and respectful treatment of refugees and immigrants

The severity of the earthquake coupled with pre-existing economic hardships in Haiti, as well as loose enforcement of human rights standards and rule of law, could cause many to seek refuge outside the country.

In such a situation, it is important for foreign governments to treat all immigrants and refugees, whether legal or undocumented, with dignity, compassion and respect for their human rights. Additionally, government policies should reflect both the immediate needs of individual Haitians and the best long-term interests of their families, communities and the country as a whole. Read more>>