There Is No More Haiti: Between Life and Death in Port-au-Prince

In There Is No More Haiti, anthropologist Greg Beckett offers a powerful ethnographic portrait of ordinary people struggling to survive in Port-au-Prince in the twenty-first century, reframing the narrative of a country in crisis.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 312 pages
Publication date: 10 November 2020
Publisher: University of California Press

This is not just another book about the crisis in Haiti. This book delves into the profound and harrowing experience of living amidst an ongoing crisis that shows no signs of ending. It explores the realities of living amidst the ruins of ecological devastation, economic collapse, political upheaval, violence, and humanitarian disaster. It sheds light on how catastrophic events and political and economic forces shape the most intimate aspects of everyday life. In this gripping account, anthropologist Greg Beckett presents a captivating ethnographic portrait of ordinary individuals navigating the challenges of survival in Port-au-Prince in the twenty-first century. Drawing on over a decade of extensive research, There Is No More Haiti expands on the narratives of death and rebirth to offer a powerful reimagining of the country's crisis narrative. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in contemporary Haiti.

Introduction:
The crisis in Haiti has been a persistent and devastating phenomenon that has impacted the lives of countless individuals and communities. This book aims to provide a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the crisis, exploring its roots, consequences, and potential solutions.

Roots of the Crisis:
The crisis in Haiti can be traced back to a combination of historical, political, economic, and social factors. One of the primary drivers of the crisis is the country's history of colonialism, exploitation, and political instability. The French colonizers arrived in Haiti in the 16th century and established a system of slavery and exploitation that lasted for centuries. This legacy of colonialism left Haiti economically and socially marginalized, with a large majority of the population living in poverty and facing limited access to basic resources.

In addition to colonialism, Haiti has faced numerous political crises throughout its history. The country has experienced several military coups, political assassinations, and civil wars, which have further destabilized the country and contributed to its economic and social challenges. The most recent political crisis, which began in 2010 and continued until 2016, was characterized by widespread protests, violence, and political instability. This crisis was exacerbated by the country's high levels of corruption, poverty, and inequality, which left many people feeling disenfranchised and marginalized.

Consequences of the Crisis:
The crisis in Haiti has had far-reaching consequences for the country and its people. One of the most significant consequences is the widespread poverty and inequality that characterize Haiti. According to the World Bank, over 80% of the population lives in poverty, and over 50% of children under the age of 18 are malnourished. This level of poverty has led to a lack of access to basic healthcare, education, and clean water, which has contributed to the country's high rates of disease and mortality.

In addition to poverty, the crisis has also led to a significant increase in violence and insecurity. The country has been plagued by gang violence, political unrest, and criminal activity, which has left many people afraid for their lives and has hindered the country's ability to develop and thrive. The crisis has also contributed to the displacement of millions of people, both within Haiti and to neighboring countries.

Potential Solutions:
Addressing the crisis in Haiti requires a multifaceted and comprehensive approach. One of the key solutions is to promote economic development and job creation. This can be achieved through investment in infrastructure, agriculture, and industry, as well as through support for small businesses and entrepreneurs.

In addition to economic development, it is essential to address the country's political and social challenges. This can be done through the implementation of democratic reforms, such as the establishment of a transparent and accountable government, the promotion of human rights, and the reduction of corruption.

Finally, it is important to prioritize the health and well-being of the Haitian people. This can be achieved through the provision of healthcare, education, and social services, as well as through efforts to reduce the country's high rates of disease and mortality.

Conclusion:
The crisis in Haiti is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that requires a comprehensive and sustained effort to address. By promoting economic development, addressing political and social challenges, and prioritizing the health and well-being of the Haitian people, it is possible to create a brighter future for the country and its people.

Weight: 412g
Dimension: 153 x 228 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520378995