Columbia International Affairs Online: Policy Briefs

CIAO DATE: 06/2010

Haiti: A Republic of NGOs?

Madeline Kristoff, Liz Panarelli

April 2010

United States Institute of Peace

Abstract

Concerns about the role of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) in Haiti’s development have been present for decades. However, these issues have gained increasing prominence following the January 12, 2010 earthquake that destroyed much of Port-au-Prince. Historically, funneling aid through NGOs has perpetuated a situation of limited government capacity and weak institutions. Haitians look to NGOs rather than their government for basic public services. Following the earthquake, international donors have recognized the importance for Haiti’s government to take the lead in recovery efforts. However, old habits die hard; the problems of government capacity and poor coordination of NGO efforts remain. Haiti’s government has been criticized for not taking a more visible role in responding to people’s needs following the earthquake. If projects implemented by NGOs do not match up with the government’s priorities, the long-term success of recovery efforts will be undermined.