About Haiti
Haiti, a nation steeped in profound cultural heritage and revolutionary history, is renowned for its indomitable spirit. Over 200 years ago, Haiti made history as the first Black nation to win its freedom, born from a successful revolution against slavery. This triumph was a testament to the strength and courage of its people, making Haiti a beacon of freedom and resistance. Yet, despite this proud legacy, the country continues to face immense hurdles.
Today, Haiti grapples with deeply rooted challenges. Political fragmentation has eroded effective governance, leaving vast regions underserved and struggling to thrive. Access to basic necessities, including healthcare and education, is severely limited for many citizens, perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality. Compounding these issues, rampant gang violence terrorizes communities, breeding instability and fear across the nation.
Our Challenge to YOU
However, Haiti’s story is far from one of surrender—it is one of enduring hope and relentless resilience. In the face of adversity, the people of Haiti continue to strive for a future defined by dignity, justice, and opportunity. Now, through the "Voices of Liberty: The Haiti Press Freedom Chronicles," you are invited to join this fight for a
brighter tomorrow.
This essay competition calls on you to confront the urgent challenges Haiti faces. How can we dismantle political decentralization and restore effective governance? What strategies can secure equitable access to healthcare and education for all? How can we dismantle the stranglehold of gang violence that suffocates communities?
Your voices, your ideas, and your vision for Haiti’s future are powerful tools for change. As you contribute to this global dialogue, you join a chorus of young leaders determined to create solutions that transcend borders. Together, through your words, you can help illuminate a path toward lasting freedom, equality, and peace in Haiti.
National Security
Gang insurgency is rampant amidst a political vacuum in Haiti. The status quo is jeopardizing Haiti’s economic recovery from a long chain of natural disasters while also exacerbating maternal and pediatric health crises. Haiti is a country that has a history of slavery and one that has deeply rooted ideals of popular sovereignty. What is the best mechanism of international cooperation and global interference?
Economic and Social
Reinvigorating the Haitian economy amidst gang violence and soaring public health crises from natural disasters. What are some internal and external sources of aid that could revitalize the Haitian economy? What were some limitations of past examples of aid (neocolonialism, short-term intermittent aid) and how can we switch towards a long term self-potentiating form of global assistance?
World Health
World Health: Tuberculosis, dysentery, cholera, and AIDS. Haiti is a country distraught by numerous public health issues stemming from frequent exposure to natural disasters. How should the UN help tackle the Haitian healthcare crisis?
Children's Law
Children's Law: Haiti is currently ranked 178th for education out of 186 total countries in the world. Less than 30% of children finish an elementary school education. Lack of access to education is majorly due to the government’s lack of emphasis on investing in the younger generation and the existence of majority privatized education. What are some ways that countries can come together to enable Haitian children to build a brighter future in Haiti?
Maternal and Pediatric Health
There are severe challenges related to maternal and pediatric healthcare in Haiti. These issues are compounded by political instability, natural disasters, and ongoing security concerns, all of which disproportionately affect mothers and children. What are the most effective strategies for addressing these healthcare challenges, and how can the international community and global health organizations collaborate to drive positive change?
Creative Piece
Through the eyes of a Haitian mother or an 8-year-old child, write a creative piece that delves into the first days of life in a country where healthcare resources are scarce. Show how the Haitian mother or the newborn child are coping in such circumstances.
Henri Christophe Pinnacle Award (International Recognitition Top 2.5% writer)
Touissant Louverture Excellence Award (International Top 10%).
Jean Jacques Dessalines Distinction Award (International top 25%).
Jean Pape Distinction Award (Domestic top 10%)
Alexandre Petion Distinction Award (Domestic top 25%)
Winning members of the competition will be given the opportunity to intern at We Kids United Corp. In addition they will receive 1:1 mentorship opportunites with our executives.