"Empire's Laboratory": How 2004 U.S.-Backed Coup Destabilized Haiti & Led to Current Crisis
Fighting continues in Haiti with armed groups calling for PM's resignation, state of emergency declared, concerns of foreign intervention in the crisis.
- Bilawal Riaz
- 1 min read
Fighting continues in Haiti between police and armed groups calling for Prime Minister Ariel Henry’s resignation. The situation is dire, with a state of emergency, displaced people, and a collapsing health system. The US conducted a mission to airlift staff and secure the embassy. Caribbean leaders are holding emergency talks. Henry hasn’t returned to Haiti after a trip to Kenya. The crisis stems back to the 2004 coup against President Aristide, revealing a pattern of US and foreign intervention in Haitian affairs. Paramilitary forces are involved, with ties to former military and police officers. Negotiations are ongoing, but there are concerns about foreign involvement without the main participation of Haitians. Elite oligarchs are linked to funding armed groups. Guy Philippe, a key figure in the 2004 coup, was recently released from US prison and has returned to Haiti. Chérizier, a powerful armed group leader, has formed an alliance against Henry, potentially involving the elite class. The situation in Haiti is complex, with a history of external interference perpetuating instability.