Is Haiti still on CARICOM’s agenda?

THE EDITOR, Madam:

Haiti is burning and its people, once the champions of liberation and resistance in the Caribbean, are now facing the weight of unimaginable hardship. The question is if Haiti is still on CARICOM’s agenda.

It is a painful question because it suggests that we, as a region, may have grown indifferent. It implies that the spirit of regionalism may be waning and the silence from some Caribbean capitals has become unbearable.

Haiti is no stranger to hardship, which it has weathered more than most. Yet, the current situation is unlike anything we have seen in the past. There is now an alarming breakdown of law and order, widespread gang dominance, political instability, food insecurity, and the disintegration of public institutions. It is a humanitarian emergency.

To its credit, several CARICOM member states have made efforts to support Haiti. Jamaica has deployed personnel and resources as part of a multinational security effort. These gestures must be recognised and applauded. But they are not enough.

Where is the broader, unified CARICOM response? Beyond the occasional statement or diplomatic meeting, where is the sustained regional leadership and action plan for Haiti’s recovery? A single nation cannot carry this burden alone. Haiti needs collective Caribbean engagement. It needs a regional strategy that is bold, people-centred, and rooted in justice.

It is a test of our humanity. CARICOM must do more than speak. It must act. We need a coordinated regional task force that can address Haiti’s urgent needs in healthcare, education, infrastructure and governance. We must send in trained experts, not just military support. We must offer our best social workers, educators, engineers and peacebuilders. We must create channels for Haitian civil society to participate in building a sustainable future.

At the same time, CARICOM must take the lead in advocating on Haiti’s behalf on the global stage. No more externally imposed solutions that do not reflect the voices of the Haitian people. The Caribbean should stand as a protective shield between Haiti and global actors who too often act without care or understanding.

The role of the wider Caribbean public is also crucial. Our churches, youth groups, schools and civil society organisations must lift their voices. Let us raise awareness. Let us contribute resources. Let us challenge our governments to do more. We must not allow Haiti to fade from our collective memory. Because, in the end, this is not just about Haiti. It is about who we are as a people. Our response to Haiti’s suffering will reflect the true depth of our Caribbean identity.

LEROY FEARON