The news summary has been reviewed editorially. The presence of United Nations peacekeeping forces in Haiti has provided some relief amidst the collapse of internal peace and security. In 1994, the US military disbanded Haiti’s national army and installed Aristide as a puppet leader to take power. After the army was dissolved, security weakened significantly, leading to widespread gang rule and the local production sector nearly collapsing. While serving in the Nepal Police, I had the opportunity to serve twice as a security personnel deployed by the United Nations for peacekeeping missions in the Caribbean nation Haiti during 2007-08 and 2010-11.
Haiti, an island nation surrounded by enchanting and beautiful sea shores, is geographically a unique natural gift. With its tropical climate, low mountain ranges, flat valleys, and abundant water resources, Haiti can cultivate various crops all year round. Its proximity to prosperous countries like the United States and Canada also offers high potential for tourism. All these factors suggest that Haiti has a pathway toward prosperity. However, hunger, disease, illiteracy, and unemployment have created a fragile condition. Internal peace and security remain shattered, and United Nations military and police personnel are striving to maintain peace.
These circumstances prompt me to draw comparisons with the Nepali context. Without systematic study, there may be some shortcomings, and suggestions for improvements are expected. Here, I will discuss the establishment of Haiti, its army’s dissolution, and the consequent effects. Historically, Haiti was under Spanish rule initially, but after 1697 the western half was ceded to France, becoming a separate nation. Sugarcane and coffee farming were the main industries. In the 18th century, known as the “Pearl of the Caribbean,” Haiti was a major exporter of sugar and coffee to Europe. Millions of African slaves brought for this production suffered oppression and exploitation.
Inspired by the French Revolution of 1789-1799, Haitian slaves revolted in 1791. After a prolonged struggle led by Toussaint Louverture, Haiti declared independence in 1804. It is the world’s first example of a nation born from a successful slave revolt. However, following independence, Haiti was forced to pay a heavy indemnity to France, which took 122 years to settle and obstructed the country’s infrastructure development.
American influence lasted from 1915 to 1934, during which the US militarily intervened and exerted influence. The US attempted to strengthen Haiti’s army but was compelled to withdraw in 1934 due to lack of cooperation. Thereafter, the US supported the Baby Doc regime. In the 1990 presidential election, the well-known priest Jean-Bertrand Aristide was elected but was overthrown by the military within seven months. In 1994, with American military support, Aristide was restored, and the army was disbanded.
Following the disbandment of the army, Haiti became insecure, gang rule intensified, and local production nearly halted without protection. Although United Nations security forces are present, a state of full security has yet to be established. Similarly, foreign strategies have created internal political instability in Haiti. Comparing with Nepal, a balance between the role of the military, the need for security, and foreign influence is essential. There is also a risk of increased division and instability in Nepal’s security arrangements.
Peace and security are crucial for a country’s prosperity and stability, and diplomatic skill is needed to defy foreign powers’ policies. – Khapung, former Inspector General of Nepal Police.
