Orem,Utah – February 3, 2026 — Forty years ago today, the exile of Jean-Claude Duvalier brought an end to one of the most painful chapters in Haiti’s history. For many Haitians, February 6, 1986 symbolized the possibility of change a collective hope that democracy, dignity, and opportunity might finally take root.
As the anniversary is observed in 2026, the Haitian Development Network (HDN) Foundation reflects not only on the hardships endured under decades of authoritarian rule, but also on the resilience of the Haitian people and the work still required to build a stable, self-reliant future.
The Duvalier era, which spanned nearly three decades, left deep and lasting scars. Political repression, corruption, and economic mismanagement weakened institutions and devastated livelihoods. By the mid-1980s, Haiti’s literacy rate remained below 30 percent, life expectancy hovered near 50 years, and more than 80 percent of the population lived in poverty. These conditions sparked the popular uprising that ultimately led to Duvalier’s departure.
In the years that followed, Haiti experienced moments of progress alongside repeated setbacks. The adoption of the 1987 Constitution and the country’s first democratic elections in 1990 marked important milestones. International engagement increased, remittances from the Haitian diaspora became a critical economic lifeline, and gains were made in education and health outcomes.
However, political instability, natural disasters, and governance challenges repeatedly slowed development. The 2010 earthquake alone claimed more than 200,000 lives and displaced millions. More recently, escalating insecurity, economic contraction, and prolonged political uncertainty have placed immense strain on Haitian families across the country.
Today, Haiti continues to face serious challenges. Food insecurity affects millions, inflation remains high, and violence has disrupted daily life for countless communities. While improvements have been made in areas such as access to education and healthcare, progress has been uneven and fragile.
Against this backdrop, HDN Foundation emphasizes the importance of empathy, long-term planning, and community-driven solutions. The organization’s “Haiti 2050” vision” focuses on helping Haiti become food secure, economically resilient, and environmentally sustainable within a generation.
“Our work is rooted in respect for Haiti’s history and confidence in its future,” said Jacques Jonassaint, Chairman and CEO of HDN Foundation. “The resilience of the Haitian people continues to inspire us. Real progress comes from investing in local leadership, sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, and education not short-term fixes.”
Haitian Development Network Foundation’s current initiatives reflect this approach. Programs supporting food production, renewable energy, and small-scale economic development are designed in partnership with local communities to strengthen self-reliance and reduce long-term dependency. Training programs and livelihood projects aim to equip families with the tools needed to build stability and opportunity over time.
Looking ahead, HDN Foundation believes meaningful progress will depend on transparent governance, inclusive economic growth, and sustained international cooperation focused on capacity building rather than temporary aid.
As Haiti marks 40 years since a pivotal moment in its history, HDN Foundation calls on supporters, partners, and members of the global community to remain engaged. Through collective effort, thoughtful investment, and respect for local solutions, Haiti’s next chapter can be defined not by crisis, but by opportunity.
To learn more about HDN Foundation’s work or to support its programs, visit hdn.org.
About the Haitian Development Network
The Haitian Development Network Foundation is a Utah-based nonprofit organization for Haiti, founded in 2023. Its mission is to improve the standard of living and well-being of Haitians everywhere through the production of knowledge and wealth. The Foundation envisions a Haiti that is food secure and self-reliant by 2035.
For more information about Haitian Development Network Foundation and its education and development initiatives, visit www.hdn.org.
Media Contact:
Jacques Jonassaint
Phone: 202-913-6699
Email: [email protected]
