The security situation continues to be potentially destabilizing, specifically the crime and gang situation in the capital, Port-au-Prince. Haiti?s growth as a narcotics transit point from Latin America to the US is contributing to both the increase in gangs in Haiti and the meteoric rise in violent crime throughout the region. Although the mandate of the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) has been extended until March 2007, generating and maintaining a secure and resolute environment will require institutional and financial resources for disarmament and reintegration, police development and reform, and judicial system reorganization. The mission, widely despised in Port-au-Prince?s slums, numbers around 8,300 troops and 1,700 international police and is arguably spread too thinly to accomplish its goals. In addition, these efforts will need to be supplemented by a visible improvement in living standards, especially in the shantytowns that are a hotbed for violent crime .
In addition to almost daily violence within the city limits, danger has begun to spread. In recent months, residents have reported frequent gunfire at night as fighting has reached more remote areas of the island, making the problem a national issue. The violence branching from Port-au-Prince adds a new dynamic to issues in Haiti. A conflict once contained in the capital city now threatens the livelihood of more Haitians as well as for tourists (Advisory). Some 50 American citizens have been abducted in the past year alone, and with the spread of violence, the rate will grow.
Challenges Ahead
In addition to finding a way to stop the violence destroying Haiti, the government needs to revitalize a torn political system, a practically non-existent judicial system, and a struggling economy.
Specific case studies regarding the reconstruction of failed states throughout the world can provide substantial guidance in overcoming criminal elements, disarming the local gangs, and constructing basic infrastructure, all of which build the foundation for peace and stability .
Substandard infrastructure, a history of political instability and violence, inefficient administration, and poor access to and quality of education are just a few of Haiti?s constraints to sustained growth. These conditions make the country one of the more difficult environments in which to do business. Political instability has weakened private sector confidence and the quality of public institutions; the latter affects the business environment and the provision of basic services. Infrastructure limitations are sizeable and need to be addressed with a strong emphasis on rehabilitation and continuance. Also, much needed improvements in human capital need to follow the lifting of other restrictions to growth and poverty diminution. Most importantly, ensuring public safety, the rule of law, and institution building will be critical for the success of any other intervention in the country.
More Intervention
A renewed commitment by UN states is imperative if Haitian authorities are to have a chance at holding the crumbling nation together. The UN, in conjunction with the Organization of American States (OAS), must act to reverse the apathetic nature of the US and other foreign governments, whose involvement in the future of Haiti is absolutely necessary. Successful growth will depend not only on aid to suppress violence, but also on foreign investment to stimulate economic development and create a renewed interest in Haiti.
