Haiti: Practicing democracy where there is no government

“There have been no elections since 2016. Things are getting done because people are doing it” – Florcie Lareche Fervil, OPODHA, Executive Director

People are repairing roads and clearing debris from bridges. They’re picking up garbage at public markets, schools, and streets. Farmers are working together to plant and harvest crops. Residents strapped for money are organizing Mutual Support Lending programs. How? Through disciplined grassroots organizing.

The People’s Ecumenical Organization for the Development of Haiti (OPODHA) has organized leadership teams in 64 communities in the North and Northeast Departments of Haiti. They elect their own officers. They visit every member of their village. They know what the needs are.

When these teams visit the locally appointed mayor, they hear the same story over and over again. “We would like to help, but the central government has sent no money.” OPODHA leader don’t get stuck on this no.

In 2024, more than 5,500 OPODH members in 64 communities have organized to generate income, make community improvements, and prevent conflict in the absence of a functioning government. This year, OPODHA expanded its Mutual Solidarity Loan Funds to 57 communities, with $70,837 in member contributions. Farmers in six communities have also been able to plant high-quality seeds for a second season as a result of the pilot Northeast Haiti Community Seed Bank, a partnership with the St. Barnabas Agriculture Center.