The first round of the Haitian legislative elections on August 9 kicked off an intense voting season for the Caribbean country. On October 25, Haitians will vote in local elections, a second legislative round, and a first round for the presidency. Finally, on December 27, a second presidential round will select the country’s next leader. With low voter turnout, lengthy delays, violence and intimidation during campaigning, and concerns about fairness and transparency, Haiti’s long-overdue elections are already off to a mixed start. That said, according to observers from the Organization of American States, these elections—which were delayed almost four years as the country struggles to recover from the 2010 earthquake— represent “a step forward in strengthening Haitian democracy.” In either case, this electoral cycle comes at a critical moment for Haiti and offers a window into larger questions about the country’s government and politics, along with prospects for economic and social progress. 

The Inter-American Dialogue and the Elliott School of International Affairs at George Washington University are pleased to host a discussion on the context and significance of this electoral calendar. 

Speakers

Robert Fatton, Jr.

Julia A. Cooper Professor of Government and Foreign Affairs
University of Virginia

Robert E. Maguire

Professor of Practice of International Affairs
George Washington University 

Moderator

Peter Hakim

Senior Fellow and President Emeritus
Inter-American Dialogue