Why the US Should Not Send Troops to Haiti: Lessons from History

No, the United States should not send its troops to Haiti. Ironically, despite the statement from the old grinch Miller that 'it's not our problem,' history and current events show a different reality. This article delves into the reasons why intervention is not the solution and why the focus should be on addressing issues at home.

The Dark History of US Involvement in Haiti

The United States has a sordid history of involvement in Haiti, with multiple forays into the country leading to nothing but tragedy and destruction. Between 1915 and 1934, the US invaded and occupied Haiti, an occupation that resulted in the death of thousands of Haitian civilians at the hands of US Marines.

During this period, the US military disbanded Haiti's elected government and tried to force the Jim Crow apartheid system on the Haitian people, leading to the establishment of a racist regime. Thousands more Haitians died during forced labor, while the US military tortured and killed hundreds. The brutal occupation was characterized by the lynching of Charlemagne Péralte, a national hero to this day, and a campaign of terror that saw his corpse displayed as a warning.

History also bears witness to the fact that the US has installed dictators and backed the worst individuals in Haiti's history, including Jean-Claude 'Papa Doc' Duvalier. The list of hands that have helped create the current state of affairs in Haiti is long, and it is crucial for the US to recognize its responsibility.

Current Situation in Haiti

Fast forward to modern times, and the current political situation in Haiti has left many questioning whether the US should once again be involved. Elected officials, whether they are criminals or not, lack the support of the Haitian people when it comes to matters of government.

A recent instalment saw the US-supported unelected prime minister, Ariel Henry, attempting to return to power, only to be met with opposition from the Haitian people. This clearly indicates that the US was not welcomed and did not have the consent of the people to take control.

It would be further harmful for the US to send troops to Haiti, especially considering that the current northern border is facing challenges as well. Sending troops to Haiti, regardless of intent, would only exacerbate the issue and be viewed as yet another interference in the country's internal affairs.

Focus on the Southern Border and Long-term Solutions

Instead of sending troops to Haiti, the US should focus on addressing its own southern border, where there is a continuous influx of migrants seeking asylum and refuge from dire circumstances similar to those in Haiti. The US should work on providing support and sustainable solutions to prevent further migration to the southern border, while also addressing the root causes of the migration.

Long-term solutions must focus on economic development and human rights in Haiti, as well as fair trade practices that can help lift the country out of poverty. The US can play a constructive role by fostering cooperation with regional governments and international organizations to support Haiti's development.

In conclusion, the path to a better future for Haiti lies in the hands of its own people and neighboring countries, not in the hands of foreign powers. Historical lessons should guide current policies, and the US should prioritize addressing its own challenges while offering support and cooperation to promote peace and stability in the region.

Keywords: Haiti, US Interventions, Foreign Policy