Anticipating and Seizing the Moment: 6 Key Demands for Haitian Diaspora Inclusion
In a previous article, "Breaking the Cycle: Why Haitians Need to Anticipate the Next Steps," I argued that “Haitians are often caught off guard by what seems like policies or plans to destroy Haiti. We’re often forced to react, always on the fly, instead of understanding the context and proactively working to shape more favorable policies.” We tend to play catch-up with policies and work in permanent crisis mode.
As Haiti’s transitional Presidential Council takes shape, the draft Framework document for how it will function outlines six key areas of focus through dedicated sectoral cabinets: security, elections, constitutional reform, the sovereign national conference, economic recovery, and social and humanitarian recovery. Among these areas, elections and constitutional reform hold particular importance for the Haitian diaspora. We must act now to outline, debate, and agree upon our demands relative to the work of these cabinets.
Thinking Beyond the Presidential Council's Creation
Despite frequent talk of diaspora involvement by Haitian leaders, inclusion isn't guaranteed. History shows we also often fail to anticipate and miss opportunities to engage in Haiti. In politics, there are no free rides. To secure a seat at the table, we must build a robust, representative coalition to advocate for ourselves. Time is of the essence, as we're already at a disadvantage.
The council's inauguration is imminent, and we should have already decided on our priorities. We need to be ready to present vetted candidates who can officially participate in the oversight structures for the council, its cabinets, and the new government. These are the activities we should have been engaged in to anticipate the crucial debates following the council's installation, which will focus on upcoming constitutional reforms and elections. Unfortunately, we find ourselves still debating the council's existence or the need for the intervention of an international force.
Many of us who follow international news, especially on the African continent saw parallels between Senegal and Haiti. We saw President Macky Sall’s attempt to cancel the elections similar to the many elections that were scuttled either by Haitian presidents or the inaction of the Haitian parliament, which resulted in President Moise ruling by decree until his assassination in his home on July 7, 2021.
Many Haitians have been celebrating Bassirou Diomaye Faye’s election as Senegal’s next president 10 days after he was released from jail. At 44, Mr. Fayewill be the youngest president the country has ever had. But Senegal's election wasn't a fluke. It showcased the power of a mobilized civil society, including universities and the economic sector, and engaged religious leaders. I was also inspired by the robust diaspora participation. The Columbus Dispatch reported that "Up to 14,000 eligible Senegalese citizens are expected to cast ballots at 23 polling centers in Ohio, New York, California, and 15 other states," Consul General Elhadji Ndao said. In France, more than 81,000 Senegalese are registered on the electoral lists out of the 200,000 established.
Prioritize and Advocate for Haitian Diaspora’s Inclusion and Representation
The Haitian diaspora is millions strong, scattered across the globe. We are CNAs, nurses, cab drivers, and doctors; we are entrepreneurs, teachers, civil servants, and artists who have thrived in our adopted countries. Most of us love Haiti and many of us are actively engaged. Yet, this potential remains untapped due to a lack of inclusion in Haiti's social and political fabric.
Our involvement will not be a gift nor will it happen by osmosis. We deserve full participation. The 1987 amended constitution allowed us to regain our citizenship and voting rights – rights we must fiercely defend in upcoming constitutional debates. These rights, especially those concerning women's representation, shouldn't be compromised. Instead, let's focus on expanding these rights for broader participation. Our diaspora organizations need to start laying out our policy demands now.
To unlock the transformative potential of the diaspora, I believe we need to prioritize and advocate for our demands during the crucial debates on constitutional reforms. Drawing from global examples, the diaspora needs to start working on their policy demands for the upcoming debates on constitutional reforms and elections.
Six Potential Demands from Haitians Living Abroad (the Diaspora):
Enshrine Dual Nationality rights: The recent debates on reverting to the 1987 Constitution highlight the risks of regression. To safeguard diaspora rights, including women's representation in parliament, Haiti's constitution must explicitly protect double nationality. Countries like Benin, Colombia, Italy, and Mali, which allow dual citizenship, provide a blueprint for ensuring diaspora inclusion without compromise.
Allow Diaspora Voting Rights from Abroad: Granting the diaspora the right to vote from abroad is pivotal for inclusive governance. Countries like Denmark and Portugal have implemented voting systems that enable citizens living abroad to participate in elections. Haiti can draw from these models to ensure diaspora voices shape its political landscape.
Allow Diaspora Representation in the House of Deputies and Senate: Ensuring equitable representation necessitates diaspora inclusion in Haiti's legislative bodies. Countries like the Dominican Republic (seven members are elected by Dominicans living abroad) and France (art. 24 and 34) have successfully integrated diaspora representatives into parliament, enhancing diverse perspectives and fostering inclusivity. Haiti can follow suit to create a truly representative system. Like Belgium, I believe citizens should also be subject to compulsory voting.
Create an Assembly of Haitians Living Abroad: Establishing an assembly dedicated to Haitians abroad fosters direct engagement and advocacy. Models like France's National Assembly of French Citizens Abroad provide platforms for diaspora voices to influence policy decisions. Haiti's assembly would serve as a vital link between the diaspora and the homeland.
Require the Election of Minister of Haitians Living Abroad from Assembly Members: The Election of a Minister of Haitians Living Abroad from Assembly Members ensures effective representation and accountability. Similar mechanisms exist in countries like India, where overseas Indian affairs are overseen by a minister elected from the diaspora. Haiti can adopt this approach to strengthen diaspora-government relations.
Authorize Embassies and Consulates to Deliver National ID Cards: Facilitating access to national ID cards through diplomatic channels is essential for diaspora engagement. Countries like Morocco have established efficient systems for consulates to issue ID cards, enabling diaspora members to participate fully in civic life. Haiti can implement similar measures to streamline administrative processes and empower its diaspora community.
The Time to Think about our Participation is Now
The time for transformative change is now. By harnessing the momentum generated by the Transitional Presidential Council and adopting these six key demands. Haiti's diaspora represents millions of individuals with a deep commitment to the nation's safety and prosperity. We possess invaluable insights, resources, and experiences gained from Haiti as well as living abroad. Denying the diaspora the right to vote disenfranchises a critical segment of the Haitian population. Haiti must embrace all its citizens -inside and outside of the country - and grant them the fundamental right to vote, ensuring our voices are heard and shaping the nation's future.
The time for transformative change is now. By harnessing the momentum generated by the Transitional Presidential Council and adopting these six key demands, we can redefine Haiti's governance paradigm. By placing inclusivity and diaspora participation at the forefront, Haiti can unlock a vast reservoir of talent and resources, propelling the nation towards a brighter future.
As Haitian citizens living abroad - the diaspora, we must move beyond talk and complaints. We can't afford complacency. We must actively build coalitions to prepare ourselves and become engaged partners with our homeland. Will Haiti seize this historic opportunity? And will the diaspora rise to the challenge?