Columbia International Affairs Online: Policy Briefs

CIAO DATE: 02/2012

Haitian Women: The Centerposts of Reconstructing Haiti

Robert Maguire

January 2012

United States Institute of Peace

Abstract

Women are Haiti’s ‘poto mitan’ (centerposts), playing pivotal roles in matters of family, education, health, commerce and the economy, and agriculture. Gender-based violence has been and continues to be a very real threat to the security and well-being of Haitian women and their families. Deficient access to education and healthcare, and misguided agricultural policies, have exacerbated women’s burdens. Improved social, economic and political empowerment of women is vital to rebuilding Haiti.