Adopting a Conflict Resolution Approach to Reconstruction in Haiti

Having heard the news stories, watched videos and pictures, and followed Twitter posts from Dr. Bartoli, in the aftermath of Haiti’s devastating earthquake, it is evident to me that conflict resolution theory needs to be integrated with reconstruction practices to prevent a protracted social conflict, a man-made disaster, emerging as an outcome of natural disaster. Basic Human Needs theory should be carefully examined as the pieces are picked up and Haiti attempts to rebuild. For Burton, human needs are a collection of human development essentials that are sought simultaneously. These human essentials include the need for structure, predictability, stability, and freedom from fear and anxiety, as well as the need for a fair allocation of resources. In addition to these most basic needs there are the issues of identity, culture, freedom, participation, and a sense of belongingness. However, given the immediacy of required assistance, a majority of these essentials may be left unmet.

Considering Burton’s notion that unmet needs directly and deeply affect all other life issues, a prolonged situation of unmet needs in Haiti could lay the groundwork for protracted or intractable social conflict.

As the rubble is removed and aid floods in, and in the midst of the drive to establish a sense of security and stability in an otherwise chaotic situation, there is likely to be an intense conflict over natural resources. To combat this potential situation, it is vital to direct energy toward maintaining security and public safety and reestablishing a sense of governance and participation. This will require a highly organized interagency effort that is flexible enough to allow for participation from nongovernmental agencies, volunteer organizations, and individuals in need of direction. Aid money will need to be closely managed so as not to invite excess expenditures or misallocated funds.

Recognizing that this situation is complex and calls for a nuanced approach to reconstruction does not negate the fact that there is no room for error. The U.S., Haiti, and the broader international community cannot afford to oversee the emergence of another protracted social conflict at the expense of basic security. Burton’s idea of human needs should serve as a guide to the reconstruction process.