Calling for the redoubling of diplomatic efforts by the United States and its international partners to help achieve a negotiated, Haitian-led solution to the current impasse in Haiti that paves the way for broadly representative interim government to oversee the return to constitutional rule through free and fair elections.
Impact
The resolution identifies several urgent needs, most notably the necessity for enhanced citizen security due to rampant gang violence that affects half of the population. It advocates for sanctions against Haitian political figures connected to violence and requires an examination and restructuring of U.S. assistance programs to support the Haitian National Police in neutralizing these gangs. The resolution asserts that the current international humanitarian and economic responses are insufficient to tackle the underlying governance crises plaguing the nation.
Summary
House Resolution 471 calls for the redoubling of diplomatic efforts by the United States and its international partners to facilitate a negotiated, Haitian-led solution to the ongoing political impasse in Haiti. The resolution emphasizes the need for establishing a broadly representative interim government that can oversee the restoration of constitutional rule through free and fair elections. The context for this resolution is Haiti's significant struggles with political and economic instability, particularly following the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021, which left the country without a functioning government.
Conclusion
Overall, HR471 aims to bring focus to Haiti's plight and the role that U.S. diplomacy and international collaboration can play in fostering a stable government structure that ultimately fosters democratic governance. The resolution highlights the intertwined fates of both Haiti and the United States, particularly given the historical and cultural connections between the nations.
Contention
Debate surrounding HR471 may arise from the methods proposed for tackling gang violence and political instability. While supporters argue for the need to enforce accountability among those perpetuating violence, critics may question the ramifications of increased sanctions and the potential for exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Furthermore, there could be contention over the effectiveness of the proposed diplomatic approaches, as stakeholders debate the best means to support Haiti in achieving a durable and peaceful resolution.
A resolution supporting the efforts of the United States and international partners to facilitate a security environment that is conducive to holding free and fair elections in Haiti and promoting a durable return to democratic governance.
Reaffirming the partnership between the United States and the Dominican Republic and advancing opportunities to deepen diplomatic, economic, and security cooperation between the two nations.
Expressing the need for protecting and conserving at least 50 percent of the land, freshwater, and ocean ecosystems in the United States and encouraging diplomatic community efforts to achieve this goal worldwide.
Supporting the United States-Thailand alliance and urging the Government of Thailand to protect and uphold democracy, human rights, the rule of law, and rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and freedom of expression ahead of the 2023 general elections in Thailand, and for other purposes.
Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives relating to the commemoration of the 190th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the United States and the Kingdom of Thailand.
Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States condemns the Russian Government's gross violations of international law amounting to war crimes and crimes against humanity, stands in solidarity with the people of Ukraine, and supports the efforts of international organizations to help people displaced by war and conflict.
To condemn racism and bigotry towards Haitian people, to celebrate the vast contributions of people of Haitian descent to the United States, to condemn the spread of misinformation, and to call on Americans to affirm our shared humanity.