The catastrophic effects of the earthquake in Haiti on January 12 are being deeply and keenly felt. Something that makes this crisis so difficult to combat effectively is the instability of the Haiti prior to the earthquake. Despite it being the first independent state in the West Indies, Haiti has consistently had a hard time gaining its footing as a nation. According to Wikipedia, the country has experienced 32 coups in its 200-year history. Plagued by the cycle of dictatorship – [military] coup – installation of a new unilateral leader, up until last week Haiti was characterized by civil unrest and dire poverty. Now, of course, the earthquake will hold a pivotal place in the country’s story.
How is medical and humanitarian aid received, processed and doled out in such a country? Haiti had little functioning infrastructure prior to the earthquake; can it even deal with the deluge of aid coming its way?
But despite the logistical nightmares facing those wanting to help, Israel has managed not only to deliver aid, but even to build a makeshift hospital. This week’s IJN includes coverage of Israel’s efforts, alongside an IJN editorial with commentary on Israel’s humane – and effective – actions.
The lesson? Where there’s a will there’s a way.
I just wonder whether, six months from now, anyone will pay attention to Haiti. It sounds like the country needs year of repair, not just emergency aid. Will anyone still care in six months?
@ Ben M
Sadly this is all too true. When these events happen, the world – and media – tend to almost overly focus on the tragedy, only for it to disappear from headlines soon after.
With Haiti being so close to the United States, though, maybe the US government will take a longer-term view to providing both emergency and structural aid.