Resumen
This report aims to provide background on the situation in Haiti to provide a starting point for conversations on possible solutions for Haiti’s current crisis, triggered by the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021. The Haitian government has lost legitimacy and gangs now rule much of the country. President Ariel Henry has requested support from the international community to help local police forces restore order and in October 2023, the United Nations approved a resolution authorizing a Multilateral Security Support mission to be led by Kenya. However, as of early 2024, Kenya has yet to send its force to Haiti.
Political and economic instability in Haiti triggers migration from Haiti to the Dominican Republic, the United States, Canada and elsewhere, and creates a breeding ground for the instability to spread to other countries in the region. Efforts in Haiti should be organized around four principles to build resilience in fragile states: stabilizing the political situation, complicated by Haiti’s history political instability and weak governing institutions; overcoming Haiti’s historically weak and unstable economic growth to create jobs and reduce poverty on a sustainable basis; strengthening the capacity and integrity of public institutions; and promoting social inclusion.
Discussions should address three overarching questions: (i) What is the proper role of the international community, taking into account the checkered track record of support from abroad?; (ii) What is the best sequence and design of reforms?; and (iii) What is the best role of the public versus the private sector?