An American Marshall Plan for Haiti

Recent false allegations against Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, have sparked a deeper reflection on Haiti’s plight.

Beyond the headlines, it’s clear that Haiti is struggling for survival, respect and dignity. The U.S. has a moral obligation to help Haitians rebuild their nation — a country not only close to America’s shores but deeply intertwined with our history.

A stable and thriving Haiti is not just about national security — it’s about doing what’s right. Haitians deserve the freedom, dignity and respect that comes with a secure and prosperous nation. Haiti’s social, political and economic breakdown offers the U.S. a chance to lead a transformative effort reminiscent of the Marshall Plan, which helped rebuild Europe after World War II.

The Marshall Plan was about more than just money; it was about hope. It gave millions of Europeans the tools to rebuild their shattered lives. It also bolstered U.S. interests by stabilizing allies and opening new economic opportunities. Haiti deserves the same chance — to rebuild, to thrive and to stand on its own with pride.

A “Marshall Plan for Haiti” could unlock the nation’s untapped potential. Starting with a geological survey to identify natural resources, such as gold and oil, this plan would invite global investment to fuel economic growth. Haiti has an estimated $20 billion in precious minerals, yet the country has been unable to fully tap into that wealth. The neighboring Dominican Republic has shown what’s possible by successfully exporting billions in minerals each year. Haiti deserves that same opportunity to rise.

Haiti’s food insecurity is another critical piece. Chronic hunger drives unrest and political instability. By helping Haiti produce its own food, we can not only ease suffering but create jobs and restore self-reliance. There’s strong demand for American investment in Haiti’s agribusiness, and by fostering local production, we can ensure that Haitians can feed themselves, building a foundation for long-term stability.

Beyond agriculture, American support can fuel growth in Haiti’s garment sector and its rich exports of coffee and cacao. Light manufacturing and tech hubs could offer new jobs, especially for the youth, breaking the cycle of poverty and creating a future of possibility.

Haiti’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage hold immense potential for tourism. With strategic investments in infrastructure and incentives for hotel developers, tourism could provide steady jobs and attract much-needed capital.

However, to ensure this plan succeeds, the U.S. must work alongside Canada, France and the
international community, investing not only in Haiti’s economy but in its people. This isn’t just about profits or political interests — it’s about giving Haitians a chance to live with dignity and break free from the chains of poverty and corruption.

As a good neighbor, the U.S. must do more than watch from afar. Now is the time to act. We must offer our support not out of charity, but out of a shared belief that Haitians, like all people, deserve the chance to rebuild, thrive and hold their heads high.

Art Estopinan served as chief of staff to the chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. He has extensive expertise in U.S. foreign policy, particularly in Latin America and the Caribbean.