The current national crisis is a direct result of important social and structural issues, but also those issues also present a key opportunity for a new beginning.

The new Haitian political leadership and public officials, civic and sectoral organizations across the whole of Haitian society are now called upon to establish a clear unambiguous covenant with the Haitian people and take responsibility for elevating the common good over personal political ambitions; for pursuing a dialogue to establish a long-term inspirational vision and a viable accepted consensus for addressing the nation’s deep social, economic, and political issues; for seeking justice for all, no matter anyone’s social status or economic standing.

Checks and balances for all branches of government are essential to the effective functioning of governance institutions in democratic societies. The political leadership, public officials, and civil society need to invest in intellectual, organizational, human, and financial capital that can strengthen Haitian governance institutions. Key issues include the scope of authority, decentralization of decision making, transparency of the use of resources, and full accountability.

Creating a safe and stable environment for the citizenry is a basic function of government. To do so effectively, both competence and capacity are essential. A high level of trust and a closer relationship between law enforcement institutions and local communities must also be established, accepted, and supported.

There is a need for a coherent, long-term economic vision where the prosperity of all Haitians is the centerpiece of the growth agenda. A paradigm shift to an inclusive economic model is both needed and required. That model must recognize the positive roles of enlightened leadership, good governance, security, and shared prosperity as a sine qua non to ongoing stability.

It is critical for our most influential international partners to embrace a new strategy wherein collaboration and cooperation become the defining principles of their ongoing relationship with Haiti. At the same time, Haiti must develop a strategic framework that defines its own priorities for future diplomatic engagements and cooperation, thereby not only continuing to interact with its current partners, but also paving the way for the development of new positive partners

Direct participation of the Diaspora in Haiti’s human development, modernization of institutions, and sociopolitical life at all levels is necessary to rebuild the country. Policies must be established, and mechanisms created to articulate that participation in the nation’s political and social development and leverage their investments to foster economic growth and build a strong and successful physical and human infrastructure that works for the people.