2006 was a year of great hope for Haïti. After two years of political turmoil, elections took place and brought a climate of expectations among the people. Every one was expecting for improved security, employment opportunities, improved public infrastructure, reduction in the cost of living and political stability.

But almost half of the year 2006 had been plagued by social terror. There were many incidents of organized murders, torture and kidnappings of adults, women and children mainly in the capital, Port au Prince. The phenomena affected all sectors of the community, paralyzing the economic and social life in Port au Prince and extended even to some of the largest cities in the country. The impacts were tremendous and affected the spirit as well as the purses of the Haitian families.

Migration is a typical social factor in Haiti due to violence, social unrest and economical reasons. The people choose the US, Canada or Europe as first priority destinations to migrate. For those unable to reach the US, Canada or Europe, the migration is "regional". In the case of Haiti, the Dominican Republic is the closest destination.

The UN peace keeping Forces, United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) are present in Haiti since July 2004. Their mandate is to restore social peace in the country even by strength. During the year 2006 MINUSTAH played a greater role in establishing some stability in the country but many challenges remain in order to get notable results.

Despite these challenges, in 2006, we were able proceed with our development programs. We believe that positive changes in the scenario should allow for more opportunities as well as to expand development programs in the conflicted, affected and remote areas of Haiti. Likewise, we will be able to support and to find positive results on migration and human rights issues for Haitians in the Dominican Republic…

You can download the complete LWF Haiti Annual Report 2006 (pdf format) by clicking here.