Diaspora

PROPOSALS FROM HAITIANS LIVING ABROAD

Haitians living abroad demand a full integration into social and political life of Haiti. This integration represents a strategic opportunity, both democratically and economically.

Current contribution of the diaspora

Central Bank (BRH) data (2011–2019)

More than 159 millions USD collected via the tax of 1,50 $ on money transfers.

Annual average: 15 to 18 million USD.

These funds were to be allocated to national education (under the Martelly administration).

International calls

A tax of 5 cents per minute is charged on international calls to Haiti.

Revenue generated: approximately USD 2 million per month.

Proposal: Creation of a “Diaspora Fund”

This fund would be intended to:

Funding defined structuring programs in collaboration with the Haitian State.

Sustain the proposed reforms by the municipal sections.

Channeling the contribution of the diaspora towards national development projects.

Potential Economic Benefits

1. Increase in the national budget

Proposed fixed tax

Every Haitian living abroad would pay 250 USD par an.

Estimated impact

Potential national budget: +1,5 milliard USD per year.

Collection via the DGI, THE embassies, THE consulates and the Ministry of Haitians Living Abroad.

Other sources of income

Renewal of passports.

Delivery of national identification cards.

2. Investment incentives

To stimulate diaspora investments:

Signature of tax treaties with host countries.

Implementation of tax incentive deductions.

Legal protection for investors from the diaspora.

3. Opening of compulsory bank accounts

Each Haitian emigrant:

Must be registered at the consulate.

Open an account at the BNC or in an authorized commercial bank.

Must deposit there at least 500 USD/year or the equivalent in gourdes.

Economic Integration of Haitians Living Abroad

a) Valorization of transfers from the diaspora

Approximately 3.5 billion USD/year are transferred by the diaspora — either 37% of GDP.

Propositions

Direct these funds towards development projects.

Stimulate the production nationale and the local consumption

Facilitate the export of Haitian products to diaspora communities.

Establishment of the BNC abroad (Canada, USA, Chile, France, etc.) to channel funds and become the Bank of the Haitian Diaspora.

b) Repatriation of Haitian graduates

Approximately 84% of Haitian university graduates live abroad.

Objective

Encourage their return to:

Participate in governance of the country.

Transfer skills & knowledge.

Serve as strategic bridge between Haiti and host countries.

Examples of incentive programs

1. « Come discover / see Haiti »

Round-trip tickets at shared cost.
2-week stay to rediscover Haiti.

2.Professional return incentive program (50% subsidy)

Local/international companies offer:
Competitive salaries
Housing, transportation, family support

Contract of 6 months

c) Tourism as a lever for development

Haitians in the diaspora are the main consumers of the Haitian tourism sector.

Potential

4.2 million immigrants + millions of foreign-born children.

Strong desire to visit Haiti when conditions permit.

“Come discover/see Haiti” program

Can become a vector for reviving tourism and a tool of cultural reconnection.

Conclusion

The economic, social and political integration of Haitians living abroad is not an option, but a strategic necessity for the sustainable development of Haiti.