The Haitian crisis and North American interference

29/12/2023
By: Pablo Gabriel Miraglia


The crisis in Haiti has complex roots, with political instability, government corruption, extreme poverty, lack of basic services and vulnerability to natural disasters as key factors.

It is multifaceted, encompassing political, economic and social problems. These challenges have contributed to social unrest, demonstrations, and difficulties in establishing an effective government. The humanitarian situation has also been aggravated by events such as the 2010 earthquake and subsequent hurricanes. The international community faces the challenge of supporting Haiti in its search for stability and sustainable development.

The United States intervention in Haiti has been a complex and controversial issue throughout history. On several occasions, the United States has intervened militarily and in multiple ways in the internal affairs of Haiti. An example is the United States military occupation of Haiti between 1915 and 1934, which generated tensions and left a complicated legacy in the perception of foreign intervention in the country. More recently, following the 2010 earthquake event, the United States has become involved in humanitarian aid operations and reconstruction efforts in Haiti. However, these interventions have also raised criticism about the United States' influence and agenda in the region. The interaction between Haiti and the United States is a sensitive issue that involves historical, political and social aspects.

The consequences of this US interference in Haiti have had a significant impact on the population, generating tensions and resistance, and although some infrastructure improvements were made, rights violations and conflicts also occurred. US humanitarian and aid interventions have had mixed results. Although crucial assistance has been provided, there has also been criticism about the effectiveness of the aid and coordination. Furthermore, the US military presence and the management of assistance have generated contradictory perceptions in the Haitian population, with concerns about sovereignty and dependency, leaving a complex legacy in Haiti, with impacts on the perception of autonomy and the capacity of the population to determine their own destiny.