The Six Month Mark
July 12, 2010 is the six-month mark of the earthquake that devastated Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince, and the surrounding areas. On this occasion, the United Nations Office of the Special Envoy (OSE) for Haiti remembers the more than 220,000 Haitians who died, as well as the personnel—both international and Haitian—whom the United Nations lost that afternoon. Although those losses cannot be regained, the OSE remains committed, as it was prior to the earthquake, to accompanying the Haitian government and people on their journey toward a more prosperous, just, and empowered future.
Schools, hospitals, and government buildings collapsed on January 12, but the promise of a better Haiti did not. The OSE is working with Haitian and international NGOs, partners from the international system, and the Government of Haiti to truly build back better—an oft-used phrase that in this case is manifested in several priorities. The OSE has advocated direct budget support—the channeling of aid money to the Government of Haiti so that it can take charge, fund its essential operations, and perform its duties. This is critical if the longstanding capacity deficits in Haiti’s government are to be eliminated. Decentralization—spreading commercial and public functions more evenly throughout the country—is also crucial, as are disaster risk reduction, renewable energy, the empowerment of women, and inclusive governance.
The response of the broader world to Haiti’s tragic misfortune since January 12 has been heartening, generous, and appreciated. Now, as hurricanes threaten the displaced and the country prepares for elections in November, that response must become as efficient, expeditious, and accountable as ever. The OSE is working to address pressing needs with its partners, and visitors to this site can read more about our joint efforts and the financial tracking at: