标签： Haiti

On November 18, 2025, Haiti marked the 222nd anniversary of the Battle of Vertières with an official ceremony at the Villa d’Accueil. Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, alongside Laurent Saint Cyr, President pro tempore and Coordinator of the Transition Council, led the commemorative activities. The event was attended by government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, civil service representatives, and high-ranking military and police commanders. The ceremony honored the heroes of 1803, whose courage and unity secured Haiti’s freedom, dignity, and sovereignty. A floral tribute was laid at the Museum of the Haitian National Pantheon (MUPANAH) in Champ de Mars, symbolizing respect for the ancestors who fought for the nation’s independence. In his address, Prime Minister Fils-Aimé emphasized the historical significance of Vertières as a moral compass for Haiti, inspiring efforts to modernize the Armed Forces (FAd’H) and ensure national security. Laurent Saint-Cyr echoed this sentiment, calling for unity and dialogue to address contemporary challenges, including gang violence and political instability. He urged all stakeholders to participate in the electoral process, framing it as a continuation of the ancestors’ vision for a free and stable Haiti.

The Haitian National Committee for Restitution and Reparations (CNHRR) has unveiled an ambitious 2026 Roadmap aimed at addressing the historical and moral debt owed by France for the ‘double ransom’ imposed on Haiti in the 19th century. This initiative seeks to transform the struggle for justice into a comprehensive societal project involving education, research, diplomacy, and public mobilization.

Historical Context:
In 1825, France demanded Haiti pay 150 million gold francs (later reduced to 90 million) as compensation for the loss of its colony and colonists’ properties. This sum, borrowed at exorbitant rates, crippled Haiti’s economic and social development for over a century, earning the term ‘double ransom.’

CNHRR’s Formation and Mission:
Established on August 8, 2025, the CNHRR comprises representatives from Haiti’s Presidency, Prime Minister’s Office, Ministry of Economy and Finance, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, civil society, and academic experts. Its mandate is to advocate for restitution and reparations from France and the international community.

2026 Roadmap Highlights:
1. **Action Plan and Structures**: The CNHRR has finalized its annual action plan and established working subgroups to address various aspects of restitution and reparations.
2. **Educational Reforms**: Collaboration with the Ministry of Education to revise history curricula and textbooks, ensuring the ‘double ransom’ is accurately represented.
3. **Public Awareness**: Nationwide conferences, webinars, and a national survey to gather public opinion on restitution.
4. **Academic Research**: Scholarships for Haitian students to conduct master’s and doctoral research on the topic.
5. **Scientific Conferences**: Two major conferences planned for 2026 on slavery, reparations, and public health.
6. **White Paper Publication**: A comprehensive document outlining arguments for restitution will be published and made accessible to all Haitians.
7. **Financial Calculations**: Collaboration with experts to determine actuarial and discounted amounts for negotiations.
8. **Student Engagement**: Study days and literary competitions to foster awareness among Haitian youth.
9. **Research Chair**: Establishment of a Research Chair at the State University of Haiti to host academic conferences and lectures.
10. **Social Mobilization**: A communication plan to involve civil society and grassroots organizations in the restitution process.
11. **International Collaboration**: Strengthening ties with CARICOM, African, American, and European organizations to build a united front for restitution.

This roadmap represents a significant step in Haiti’s quest for historical justice, aiming to rectify centuries of economic and social injustice inflicted by colonial exploitation.

On November 18, 2025, Haiti commemorated the 222nd anniversary of the Battle of Vertières, a pivotal moment in its history that led to the nation’s independence. Former interim President Jocelerme Privert delivered a poignant address, reflecting on Haiti’s enduring struggles and the urgent need for renewal. He emphasized the significance of this date as a cornerstone of national identity, symbolizing the country’s relentless pursuit of freedom, dignity, and sovereignty. However, Privert also highlighted the dire challenges facing Haiti today, including rampant gang violence, economic collapse, and social instability. Port-au-Prince, the capital, has been under siege by armed groups, forcing government institutions to flee and leaving the Toussaint Louverture International Airport abandoned. The economy has been in decline for six years, with negative growth rates and dwindling investments. Social conditions are equally alarming, with over 60% of the population living in extreme poverty and food insecurity. Nearly 1.4 million people have been displaced due to violence, and millions of children are deprived of education. Privert called for the restoration of constitutional order, credible elections, and a collective effort to reject corruption and violence. He urged Haitians to draw inspiration from their history and work together to build a stable, prosperous, and united nation. Privert’s message was a rallying cry for civic responsibility, courage, and unity, reminding Haitians that their destiny lies in their hands.