The National Democratic Institute is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization working to support and strengthen democratic institutions worldwide through citizen participation, openness and accountability in government.

The hemisphere’s second oldest republic, Haiti continues its transition towards democracy that began in 1986 with the fall of the Duvalier family dictatorship. The consolidation of democracy in Haiti has been hindered by the highest poverty rates in the western hemisphere, limited access to education, corruption and a winner-takes-all political culture. Elections in 2006 gave former president René Préval a second mandate to lead the country, and Haitians elected senators as well as municipal posts in 2006 and 2007. While these elections provided a new degree of legitimacy to the government, the country’s political stability remained fragile. Riots erupted across the country in 2008 in response to the rising cost of living, resulting in the dismissal of the prime minister. After several months of failed nominations, a new prime minister was confirmed. Shortly thereafter, hurricanes ravaged the country, leaving hundreds dead and thousands homeless. In April 2009, Haiti held elections to replace one-third of the senate, with a second round of elections planned for June. With the terms of nearly half of the Senate already expired, these elections are key to ensuring that the legislative body can maintain quorum and continue functioning.

Since 1986, NDI has worked with Haitian political and civic leaders to strengthen democratic practices and institutions.

Civic Forum/Civil Society Advocacy

Democracy for All

Political Party Building and Reform

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