Panama

The United States and Panama presented a draft proposal to the U.N. Security Council on Thursday that would create a “gang-suppression force” with a maximum of 5,550 uniformed personnel. The force would have arrest and detention powers and more military-grade capabilities and lethal equipment.  As of right now, it is unclear whether the new plan would replace or expand the Kenyan led security force.  The proposal is essentially an admission that the force has failed - but to be fair, even with twice the staff, arms, and financing the task of stabilising and holding Port au Prince let alone areas outside the capital would have been too much.  The full article is linked and follows. 

Dialogue concerning Haiti's development is changing.  First, there is more discussion than ever before about Haiti's private sector, and a sense that trade will do more for Haiti in the long run than aid.  Second, there is a growing emphasis on integrating Haiti economically and socially with the rest of the Caribbean and Latin America.  Finally, donors are increasingly helping the Haitian government to address its own priorities.  There are many challenges but also many possibilities.  As Haitian say, little by little birds make their nests...