The Forgotten Crisis: Haiti’s Low Priority in Global Affairs
The gathering of Foreign Ministers from the world’s wealthiest nations in Brazil on February 21, 2024, briefly shed light on Haiti’s dire situation, albeit not as part of the main agenda. Haiti’s relegation to the sidelines of international discourse is a stark reminder of the low priority assigned to the country by these global powerhouses.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken took the initiative to put Haiti on the agenda, highlighting U.S. concerns over the country’s instability and the continuous arrival of Haitian refugees to U.S. shores. However, as of February 23, 2024, major G20 nations have not responded enthusiastically, reflecting the acute rivalry between Russia, China, and the U.S.
A Legacy of Exploitation
Haiti’s situation is deeply rooted in a history of colonialism and racism. As suggested by Jake Johnson in his book "Aid State: Elite Panic, Disaster Capitalism, and the Battle to Control Haiti," Western perceptions of Haiti are marred by a history of colonialism and racism. I argue that the issue is primarily one of passive racism, a disregard for Haiti that likely wouldn’t exist if its population were white.
France and the U.S.: A Shared Responsibility
France and the U.S. have a particular responsibility in Haiti’s plight, having significantly profited from and subsequently destabilized the country. Whatever internal political issues they face, neither country can be excused from their responsibility for impoverishing Haiti. The heavy debt imposed by France following Haiti’s independence and the U.S.’s prolonged financial and political interference have left deep scars on Haiti’s ability to self-govern and prosper.
A Call to Action
The primary onus for aiding Haiti lies with France and the U.S. They should be at the forefront of efforts to restore order and rebuild the nation, contributing not just through police presence now but also by investing in Haiti’s infrastructure and social systems, rectifying the historical injustices that continue to impede its progress.
Conclusion
Haiti’s relegation to the sidelines of international discourse is a stark reminder of the need for a renewed, committed global effort to address its crises. It is time for those nations most implicated in its historical exploitation to fulfill their moral and ethical obligations to Haiti. Only then can we hope to see Haiti as a stable, sovereign, and thriving nation, rather than perpetually labeled as a "failed" state or an "aid" state.
FAQs
Q: What is the root cause of Haiti’s crisis?
A: Haiti’s crisis is deeply rooted in a history of colonialism and racism.
Q: Which countries have a particular responsibility in Haiti’s plight?
A: France and the U.S. have a particular responsibility, having significantly profited from and subsequently destabilized the country.
Q: What is the solution to Haiti’s crisis?
A: A renewed, committed global effort is needed, with France and the U.S. at the forefront of efforts to restore order and rebuild the nation.