Examining the role of non-governmental organizations: A case study of humanitarian assistance in Haiti

Background: Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Haiti have devoted significant dollars ($550 million from the US alone) and resources towards humanitarian assistance to supplement the weak governing institutions and poor health statistics which affect the population. Despite these efforts, nearly 80% of the population lives in chronic poverty with a number of endemic infectious diseases such as cholera and HIV. Many global health professionals attribute this lack of sustainable health intervention to flaws inherent within the systems of humanitarian aid. Purpose: Synthesis the limitations of NGO activity in Haiti and create a conceptual framework for implementing future humanitarian assistance based upon specific factors relating to sustainability. Methods: Qualitative data from a multiple participant case study was collected and analyzed for common themes using a qualitative descriptive design. These themes were combined with the salient literature and participant-observation data recorded in Haiti to create a conceptual framework for future humanitarian assistance. Findings: Four themes emerged which focus on the beliefs and attitudes regarding current humanitarian assistance and NGO capacities: (i) NGOS and their Impact on the Quality of Life, (ii) Humanitarian Assistance and the Public Health Infrastructure, (iii) Methods of NGOs in Haiti & Cultural Competency, and (iv) Sustainability & the Use of Community Health Workers. Discussion: As evident by the case study, the literature review and the participant observation the need for sustainability and collaboration are key components for health improvement efforts in Haiti. Using this information, a conceptual framework is proposed which incorporates elements that promote sustainability and discourage dependency.