United States

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. 

Denise Green, a Haitian friend and colleague, wrote a blog in November 2007 urging Haiti to go solar.  Over the past year, there has been a tremendous increase in coverage of solar energy.  With new interest, developments, and possibilities solar energy could make a real difference in countries such as Haiti where oil fluctuations are felt acutely.   Haiti is predictably hot and sunny but apart from traffic lights and a handful of schools and homes, it is not widespread.  This could change.  Perhaps Haiti can learn from the experiences of other countries.