Economic security is one of the major components of quality of life.

What this means is that

The commercial economy

The large scale commercial economy has economic security in the form of savings, some in the form of overseas holdings. The small scale trader also may have savings, but small. The latter group needs the economy to succeed in order to have economic security.

Employees

The formal employment sector is not the only economic sector in Haiti. The current rules about employment and wage levels do not provide much economic security. Employees need the economy to succeed in order to have jobs in order to have economic security.

Vulnerable groups

Vulnerable groups, particularly female headed families, disabled and aged are a particular problem. These groups have traditionally been cared for within the community as a whole, and this is the best way for this problem to be addressed for the long term. The community will do a good job caring for these groups if the community itself is stable and reasonably economically secure. For these groups, the value of caring and belonging is important, just as getting money or getting food.

From emergency to development

Analysis of the development process suggests there must be a very strong commitment to ending emergency interventions and putting the available resources to work in a development mode to build economic growth. In an emergency intervention, the assumption is that the beneficiaries have no economic security, and must rely totally on the provision of emergency goods and services. Sustainable economic growth will not result in an end to the “need” for emergency assistance as long as there is the possibility of emergency assistance.

Income generation and employment

The foundation for economic security is a solid base of income generating activities and employment. Almost all the initiatives proposed for the sustainable development of the area and the reintegration of refugees, returnees and displaced persons are based on the concept that the economic base must be strengthened. To this end, the various proposals for upgrading of physical infrastructure are seen not only as long term investments for the improvement of the economy, but also as critical short term stimulus to employment in the economy.

Vulnerable groups

Vulnerable groups make up a special case. Many people in this group have lost the community links that would have helped them in more ordinary times. This is a problem that must be solved in a manner that is compatible with the social structure and community structure. Money and assistance may continue to be given to this group during a transition period, but must be taken over by a community based initiative within a limited time frame. Funding for the community initiative should be systematically transferred from official international aid to becoming a local responsibility together with other forms of aid and charity.