• International Disregard for Haitian Sovereignty •

The Montana Accord Importance and Challenges

Amidst Haiti’s struggles of natural and historical origin, this pact championing Haitian sovereignty and a grassroots approach to rebuilding, emerged as a beacon of hope. However, lack of international support for the agreement remains a hurdle.

August 30, 2021 Agreement (Montana Accord): The agreement is a collective effort by Haitian organizations and civil society to address the challenges facing the nation. It emphasizes the need for a Haitian-centric approach, prioritizing the agency and self-determination of the Haitian people in resolving their issues.

Peasant organizations and Haitian civil society advocated for a “Haitian solution for Haiti” through the Montana Agreement. This agreement proposes a series of measures that underscore the importance of Haitian sovereignty as the fundamental key to resolving the crisis sparked by foreign capitalist interests.

Sovereignty as a key princile:The Montana Agreement places a strong emphasis on sovereignty as a guiding principle. It asserts that the people of Haiti should have control over their own destiny, free from external interference. This stance aligns with the broader call for self-determination, where Haitians seek to shape their political, economic, and social future independently.
Opposition to Foreign Capitalist Interests: The agreement implicitly or explicitly rejects the influence of foreign capitalist interests in determining Haiti’s path. By doing so, it stands against interventions or proposals, such as the Dominican Republic’s closure of borders and the Kenyan proposal for a multinational force, which are perceived as external impositions on Haiti’s affairs.

Advocacy for Grassroots Solutions: Peasant organizations and civil society, in alignment with the Montana Agreement, advocate for solutions that originate from the grassroots level. This may include empowering local communities, supporting sustainable agricultural practices, and fostering economic initiatives that directly benefit Haitian citizens.

Appeal for International Recognition and Support:

While emphasizing Haitian sovereignty, the advocates of the Montana Agreement may simultaneously appeal for international recognition and respect for Haiti’s right to determine its own course. The call for a “Haitian solution for Haiti” is not isolationist, but rather seeks solidarity and understanding from the international community.
The Accord’s implementation required international recognition and support, particularly from major powers like the United States. While the international community initially expressed support for the Accord, their actions and commitment to its implementation wavered, weakening its legitimacy and impact.

The failure to endorse the Montana Accord sent a message that the international community was not genuinely committed to Haiti’s democratic aspirations. This lack of recognition further erodes trust and cooperation between Haiti and external actors and further impedes the country on its road to recovery.

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