Reflections: Supporting the Haitian National Police
I often think of Haiti as a synonym for resilience. The recent events have now confirmed my thoughts. The UN Security Council approved a mission to support Haiti’s security forces in October 2023. Four months later, after patiently waiting, the proposed Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission still is not present on Haitian soil. Like the Bwa Kale movement back in May 2023, this past fortnight Haitian police officers, accompanied by residents of the upscale neighbourhood of Petion-Ville in Port-au-Prince successfully confronted armed gangs seeking to gain control of their local area.
I was fortunate to be in Port-au-Prince as a child. I remember visiting rural towns and feeling the warm welcome from everyone we met. The smell of fresh coffee, always freshly brewed to greet guests; walking through town with friends and tasting fruits, a ritual that would often end in a refreshing bath in a local waterfall. Fishing and enjoying the beach in a worry-free environment are the images I keep of my childhood. My parents moved back to Haiti from the United States of America in the 1970s. They had planned to retire in a Caribbean Island paradise. Jean Claude ‘Baby Doc’ Duvalier had just taken over Haiti after the rein of his father ‘Papa Doc’. He was 19 years old when he accepted control of the country. It was time to switch from an iron fist and welcome back some of those who had fled from dictatorship. In 1986, after resigning under pressure, Baby Doc went into exile. Looking further back in history, there has been other periods of civil war and endless clashes between those in power and those in opposition. This pattern often resulted in international intervention and occupation, a cycle that must surely end.
Today, even more Haitians are living abroad but hoping to come back home. However, much-needed changes must take place to allow us to finally enjoy the Caribbean sun, tropical waters and sandy beaches. Being part of the West Indies, Haiti was once known for its tourist attractions and only recently cruise ship stopped visiting Labadie on the north coast. Vestiges from the revolutionary era, along with the Citadelle La Ferriere, were recognised as Word Heritage sites by UNESCO, adding to the rich Taino history of Haiti. Haiti’s slave revolt can be compared to the story of David and Goliath. We established the first Black Republic after defeating Napoleon’s army in 1803 and continued to help other nations fighting oppression. As a symbol of resistance and freedom, the colours of the Haitian flag are present in other banners across the Americas.
Education is a key factor that will change this cycle of violence. This time around we are at another crossroads. Fortunately, this generation has access to the world with modern communication tools. Many more Haitians can graduate from university and have a chance to visit other developing countries. These experiences have started to catalyse change. Corruption, election fraud and other crimes are far more frequently exposed than they were even a decade ago. Manipulation from traditional politicians and the media to instigate public unrest and support are no longer an effective weapon as they were in the past.
The next step is obviously a strong justice system with competent and capable law enforcement. Our team is proud to contribute to this important endeavour, focusing on delivering on the ground, responding to clearly-articulated need. We strongly believe supporting the Haitian National Police is a concrete step to help reform the law enforcement and justice system. We will be with these young officers as they seek to implement change and support a safe and stable environment where Haitians can thrive.