I know that there is a separate thread discussing the earthquake and the global response. This thread is intended to be about Haiti and it's position within the "International Community". Some interesting points have been raised in other threads, but the topic deserves it's own thread so that some important issues can be examined separately from the issue of the earthquake.
First, there is a significant increase in Canada's role in Haiti in recent years. This matter deserves closer examination.
Secondly, the United States and other members of the "International Community" seem to devote far more resources to this small and impoverished nation than it's economic or geostrategic position would warrant.
I have been enlightened by some of the comments and supporting links posted in other threads. I have been researching the facts that they lead to with some interest. One thing that has surprised me is that fact that the United States is building it's fifth largest embassy in Haiti. Why would they need such a large embassy in such an insignificant country, especially one located so close to the US mainland?
http://www.haitiaction.net/News/RAW/2_28_8/2_28_8.html
I have uncovered some links that discuss the possibility that oil deposits have been uncovered in Haiti, but have been kept undisclosed for many years for strategic reasons. There is also some talk of Haiti being used as an oil transshipment terminal. I am not sure how credible this sources are, but the US activity in Haiti seems to suggest that Haiti is more than just a source of cheap labour and cash crops.
Then there is Canada's role in all of this. Why did we agree to sign on as America's little banana republic occupier, a role which we have scrupulously avoided for so long? What benefit is there for Canada to damage it's good name in the hemisphere in this manner? How did this transformation occur and why is it not a subject of discussion in the mainstream media?