Haiti is going through a deep and prolonged crisis, but the solution to our problems can only come from ourselves. Neither the international community, nor foreign powers, nor Haiti’s so-called “friends” have the keys to resolving our crises. We are the only masters of our destiny and our reality. Recent history teaches us that each nation is primarily concerned with its own geopolitical and strategic interests.
The World and its Problems: A Priority Elsewhere
The tensions and conflicts shaking the world today show that the international community is more focused on its own crises. The wars in Yemen between the government and the Houthi rebels, the growing tensions between China and Taiwan, the endless conflict between Israel and Palestine, and the clashes linked to Hezbollah in Lebanon are all hotbeds of conflict that monopolize the global attention.
In addition, the internal conflicts in Africa, with the rise in power of Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger against ECOWAS, as well as the tensions between North Korea and South Korea, or the Russian invasion in Ukraine, illustrate the complexity of current geopolitical concerns. Added to this are the electoral issues in the United States, which are further polarizing the attention of Western powers.
It is clear that in this context, Haiti does not represent a priority for foreign powers. We must face the facts: the international agenda is loaded with multiple interests and concerns, leaving little space for genuine engagement with Haiti.
The Lesson Learned: Resolving Our Disputes Internally
The global situation underscores an important truth: no foreign power has the time or interest to impose a lasting solution to our problems. External aid is often accompanied by conditions that serve the interests of those offering it more than those of the Haitian people. Thus, any attempt to delegate our future externally is doomed to failure.
We Haitians must therefore learn to resolve our differences on our own. This involves initiating a sincere dialogue between the different political, economic and social forces of the nation, and favoring consensus around national interests. Solutions can only emerge from the mobilization of our internal resources, the reconstruction of our social fabric and the strengthening of our sovereignty.
A Haitian Road Map for the Future
To get out of this impasse, several essential steps are necessary:
1. Inclusive political dialogue: All political forces must come together to develop a common vision for the future of the country.
2. Economic sovereignty: Promote local production and reduce our dependence on imports and international aid.
3. Strengthening institutions: Building a strong, transparent state capable of providing essential services to citizens.
4. Citizen mobilization: Involve the population in decision-making processes and strengthen social cohesion through community development programs.
Conclusion: Haiti, Sole Master of its Destiny
Faced with a world absorbed by its own crises and conflicts, we Haitians must take charge of our future. History teaches us that solutions imposed from the outside are ephemeral and often unsuitable. Only a collective and concerted effort of the nation can put an end to our crises. We are the only ones who can define and build the Haiti we want.
It is time to break with the illusions of saving aid from elsewhere and to fully assume our historical responsibility: to build a State and a society that live up to our ambitions. Haiti, despite its challenges, can and must find within itself the solutions to recover.
Patrick Alexis
Committed Citizen
alexispat@gmail.com
