Beyond Borders: Navigating Crisis and the Global Fragility Act (GFA)

Escalating violence, attacks by civilian groups, gang control, and widespread chaos - Haiti adds yet another layer to the nation’s long-lasting crisis, even prompting the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry. Close to a complete breakdown of law and order, the urgent question arises: How can Haiti restore peace and stability and end the years of suffering?

In response to the challenges of violence and instability worldwide, the GFA, a legislative initiative of the United States, was created to help nine priority countries, such as Haiti, to achieve peace and stability. The comprehensive 10-year strategy, implemented in April 2022, aims to proactively prevent conflict by strengthening local ownership, fostering international cooperation, establishing global funds, and integrating diplomatic support. However, two years into its implementation, the pact faces significant hurdles and falls short of its intended U.S. policy goals. Challenges such as political buy-in, bureaucratic obstacles, and limited use of diplomatic and defence tools are impeding progress in countries like Haiti. Critics argue that the pact has a long way to go, especially as many of the selected countries continue to struggle with persistent conflicts that can spill over into neighbouring countries.

This dynamic is evident in the case of Haiti, whose ongoing struggle led to a massive influx of refugees seeking sanctuary in the Dominican Republic, causing the latter to close its borders, disrupting the movement of goods and exacerbating regional tensions. Current challenges underscore the notion that while the Global Fragility Act embodies solid principles, its practical implementation requires further refinement and development.
Anja Ihle

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