Submitted by bryan (not verified) on Fri, 12/22/2006 - 11:31.
I agree with you entirely that people are fed up.
I remember when Aristide, I believe in 2001, declared a zero tolerance policy on crime.
This really wasn't modelled after the "broken windows" approach of Mayor Giuliani that focused on enforcing even minor infractions of the law, to counter a culture where people felt lawlessness prevailed.
Zero Tolerance, as it was interpeted, basically endorsed vigilante justice. For a month or so, Port au Prince was very safe and with (comparatively) few violent incidents.
The policy fell apart when it became clear zero tolerance did not apply to police, politicians, or anyone else in a position of power.
Haitians have never had a fair and effective justice system. In the rural communities, as a result of not having institutions, Haitians are remarkably civil and have learned how to address, or at least mitigate, conflicts in a communal manner.
Port au Prince is different though. Its a dangerous city and survival takes precedent. People want change but, without security, development is not going to take place. As devastated as Haiti is, each day that goes by is a lost day that could be spent on rehabilitation of the environment and reconstruction of the country.
I dont know the solution nor what will happen next, but it is clear that Haitians are frustrated and angry.
This is a problem so large that the police, UN forces, civil society, Haitian government ministries, and the international community all have roles to play.
Zero Tolerance Redux?