There are many challenges that characterize Haiti as a nation state. After all, with 70 percent of Haitians living in poverty and slightly more than half the population living in abject poverty, it can be a challenge to look beyond Haiti’s dismal status in the western hemisphere. This present condition does not have to be a lasting one. Concerted action taken today can redefine Haiti’s prestige and how others chose to engage with this country.

The Haiti I see is a place where all Haitians are proud to call home.

 Almost every Haitian cherishes the historical account of the Haitian Revolution. But for too many, hope for Haiti’s future ended right after it became the first black republic in the world. Whether it’s because of painful memories from the 29-year father and son Duvalier dictatorship or the turbulent years since then, some have lost faith in Haiti’s ability to move towards long-term economic and political stability. This moment in time provides a unique opportunity to reclaim some of that determination. Haiti can and will be a place that future generations continue to speak of with pride…and not only because of the revolution.

The Haiti I see is adequately equipped to manage its land-use development.

Currently, the Haitian state has no real authority to regulate land-use and infrastructure development. The Haiti of the future will be able to create and support social and physical environments that are conducive to the well being of its populations. Haiti will take great care to maintain urban growth, agricultural production, the separation of residential and industrial zones, and much more in a way that does not compromise the wellbeing of future generations.

The Haiti I see is able to deliver basic services to its citizenry.

Building up the capacity of regional and local governments can dramatically assist with spreading resources more equitably throughout the country. Each of Haiti’s ten departments (regions) has a governance structure that has not been empowered to do much until now. It is time to build up the capacity of local jurisdictions so that they can competently assist the Haitian national government in addressing the needs of all Haitians. These needs certainly include equitable access to education, healthcare, economic opportunities and a better overall livelihood.

That’s the Haiti I see.