John Wesley Désir Represents Haitian Youth at the 24th University for Youth and Development 2025
Haiti in the spotlight in Spain! John Wesley Désir represents Haitian youth at UYD 2025 to defend democracy and digital security.

Article 1 of the Haitian Constitution of 1987, amended in 2011, establishes the foundations of national identity. In one concise but powerful sentence, it states that Haïti is an indivisible, sovereign, independent, free, democratic and social Republic. These six terms reflect the fundamental values and collective aspirations of the Haitian nation, forged through a rich and tumultuous history. q~ARTICLE 1: Haïti is a Republic, indivisible, sovereign, independent, cooperative, free, democratic and social.~q Let’s discover the meaning and importance of each of these principles in the context of the Republic of Haiti.
Haiti, the world’s first independent black republic, played an exceptional role in the quest for independence for other nations. Although often overshadowed by other historical events, Haiti’s contribution to the liberation of other countries was significant and deserves to be highlighted. b~The Haitian Revolution~b At the turn of the 19th century, Haïti threw off the chains of slavery and achieved the impossible by freeing itself from French colonial rule. In 1804, the country proclaimed its independence, ushering in a new era for oppressed peoples around the world. b~Inspiration for Latin America~b The Haitian Revolution was a major source of inspiration for independence movements in Latin America. Iconic figures such as Simón Bolívar and Francisco de Miranda recognized the courage and determination of Haitians as a driving force for their own struggles. By materially and ideologically supporting these movements, Haïti contributed to the emergence of several independent nations in South America. b~Influence in Africa~b Beyond the Americas, Haïti also played a crucial role in the quest for independence in Africa. African leaders have left a legacy that has inspired entire generations of freedom fighters on the African continent. The idea that oppressed people could rise up against their oppressors found a powerful echo in the struggles for independence in Africa. b~Support for Liberation Movements~b Throughout its history, Haïti has provided substantial support to liberation movements around the world. Whether through troop dispatches, financial resources or active diplomacy, the country has demonstrated its solidarity with those fighting for their autonomy. Haiti’s contributions have often been discreet but crucial. Haiti, as a pioneer of independence and freedom, has left a lasting impact on the world stage. His legacy resonates across continents, reminding the world that the quest for freedom is universal. By recognizing and celebrating Haiti’s role in the independence of other nations, we not only honor its history, but we also commit to promoting a future where all people have the opportunity to shape their destiny.
Time management in Haïti follows a practice shared by several countries: daylight saving time. Adopted for several decades, daylight saving time consists of moving the clocks forward by one hour for part of the year in order to maximize the use of daylight. This article explores how and why this measure is applied in Haiti, as well as its impact on the daily lives of Haitians.
On December 5, 2024, the Emmanuel Charlemagne Municipal Cultural Center opened its doors for an unforgettable day dedicated to the history and memory of the pre-Columbian peoples of Haïti and the Caribbean. Entitled "Arawak, Tainos, Ciboney Survival", this cultural initiative brought together enthusiasts, researchers and the curious in an atmosphere rich in discoveries and emotions.
In the annals of the history of Haiti, an island located in the Caribbean at the entrance to the Gulf of Mexico and shared with the Dominican Republic, Jean-Jacques Dessalines emerges like a phoenix from the ashes of oppression. Born a slave on September 20, 1758 in the home of Henri Duclos, in Cormier (Grande-Rivière-du-Nord), in the French colony of Saint-Domingue, Dessalines was a Creole of African (Afro-Caribbean) origin. Freed during the 1794 abolition achieved through slave revolts, actually served as an officer in the French army during the French Revolution. At that time, the ideas of freedom and equality were at the heart of the concerns of the inhabitants of the colonies. Dessalines actively participated in the fighting against the Spanish and British forces, alongside the French, in Santo Domingo. Having risen to the rank of Lieutenant General, Jean-Jacques Dessalines turned against the French during the Leclerc expedition, sent to Saint-Domingue by Bonaparte to reestablish colonial authority and slavery during the Haitian Revolution. After the capture and deportation of Toussaint Louverture to France on June 7, 1802, Dessalines assumed a leading role in continuing the struggle for independence. He led numerous battles, including the battle of Crête-à-Pierrot in March 1802, where he galvanized his soldiers with his famous declaration: “Let those who want to remain slaves of the French leave the fort, let those, on the contrary, who want to die as free men, line up around me.” On January 1, 1804, Jean-Jacques Dessalines achieved the long-awaited goal of independence by proclaiming Haïti as a sovereign nation, becoming the second country in the Americas to gain independence from a colonial power. He became the first leader of the newly formed nation and was named Emperor under the name James I. However, his imperial reign was marked by authoritarian and brutal policies, including the massacre of many white settlers and the redistribution of land to peasants that was in the hands of the generals of the independence army. In addition, he organized the hunt for delinquents in the city while implementing rigorous agrarian policies, considering that they represented a threat to the stability of the nation, these controversial actions caused divisions within Haitian society. Dessalines was assassinated on October 17, 1806 following a plot organized by some of his generals in the Haitian army. His death marked the end of his brief but influential period in power. Despite the controversies surrounding his methods, he is recognized as the main architect of Haiti’s independence and his name was honored in 1903 by being attributed to the Haitian national anthem, La Dessalinienne, composed by Justin Lhérisson.Finally, the great visionary man Jean Jacques Dessalines remains an emblematic figure in the history of Haiti, recognized for his role in the fight for independence and the end of slavery in the region.
Camp-Perrin, nestled in the South department of Haiti, is one of the most picturesque cities in the Caribbean region. Located just 23 kilometers east of Les Cayes, the country’s third-largest city, Camp-Perrin is a true haven of peace. Its pleasant climate, lush vegetation, and serene atmosphere make it an ideal place for those seeking natural beauty and tranquility. While Port-au-Prince, the capital of Haiti, is often marked by tension and social difficulties, Camp-Perrin stands out for its calm and joyful ambiance, offering a different perspective on life in Haiti. Geographical Location and Proximity to Les Cayes Camp-Perrin is located in the southwest region of the country, about 30 kilometers from Les Cayes, a dynamic urban center that plays a crucial role in trade and economic activities in the southern part of Haiti. Although Les Cayes is the third-largest city in Haiti, Camp-Perrin, as a small rural town, contrasts sharply with the hustle and bustle of the big city. Access to Camp-Perrin is easy via National Road #6, which connects Les Cayes to Jérémie, passing through this small town, a journey of less than an hour by car.
Haiti, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Antilles", is a true cultural and historical gem, ready to amaze travelers from around the world. The first independent black country, a land of creativity and resilience, Haïti is full of unique tourist attractions: monuments classified as world heritage, breathtaking natural landscapes, and a vibrant culture that leaves no one indifferent. Haïti is positioning itself as a must-see destination in the Caribbean. This sector represents a key opportunity to generate sustainable revenues and promote the country’s unique identity.
Haiti, often nicknamed "the pearl of the Antilles", is a fascinating destination for travelers in search of authenticity. This Caribbean island country offers a unique combination of natural beauty, an exceptional historical heritage, and a vibrant culture.
The Monferrier Dorval Chair of Constitutional Law is a high-intellectual-intensity initiative, taken by the State University of Haïti (UEH), through the leadership of its rectorate, in agreement with the leaders of the Faculty of Law and Economics (FDSE). The initiative’s primary goal is to honor and perpetuate the memory of the valiant and brilliant Professor Monferrier Dorval, assassinated in unclear circumstances, about three years ago. And in order to make a scientific contribution to the great debate that has been going on in Haitian society for about ten years about the need to change or not, the constitution of March 29, 1987, amended on May 11, 2011. Shouldn’t we try to apply it preferably? If it needs to be changed, should this change be radical, otherwise what should it have in terms of change within a new mother law for a better institutional organization of Haiti. The chair is scientifically chaired by Professor Henri Marge. Dorléans, (current head of AFPEC), and is vice-chaired by the dean of the faculty of law and economics, Me Eugène Pierre Louis. The Chair is materialized by a set of conferences and debates (15 in total), which take place in the premises of the Office of the Protection of the Citizen OPC, under the name of Wednesday of the Monferrier Dorval Chair. It is in this sense that for the fifth edition of the Wednesday of the chair (which took place this Wednesday, October 9, 2024 at the OPC, in the presence of the protector of the citizen, Me Renan Hédouville), attention was placed on education within the debate surrounding the possible development of a new constitution for Haiti. This 5th meeting took place under the theme of: "Education, Teaching, Research, Science and Technologies". The conference was hosted by three greats of the Haitian intellectual community, including two eminent professors of the UEH, namely, Professor Odonel Pierre Louis, academic director of the École normale supérieure (ENS); the vice rector of the UEH, Professor Jacques Blaise. Their interventions were followed by that of the director of the national institute of vocational training (INFP) Mr. Dikel Delvariste.
Haitian cuisine is a true culinary treasure that charms taste buds around the world. With its African, French, Creole and Native American influences, it offers a unique and memorable taste experience. From street food to festive dishes, Haitian cuisine celebrates the diversity of local ingredients and the ingenuity of chefs who transform them into culinary delights.
Vertières is the place where history’s light shines brightly. The war that led to the independence of the first black republic in the world, Haiti, spanned several decades. Jean-Jacques Dessalines, who proclaimed the victory on January 1, 1804, was a man who cleverly capitalized on the honorable legacy left by Toussaint Louverture at the head of this struggle for the first liberation of a black people in the Americas. The Battle of Vertières took place in the northern outskirts of Saint-Domingue, the name of Haïti under the yoke of slavery, near the current commune of Limbé. Under a pouring rain, mixing the mud with the blood of the freedom fighters represented by Dessalines’ indigenous army, on November 18, 1803.
Christmas in Haïti is a celebration rich in traditions, festivities and moments of sharing. Unlike other countries, where decorations and lights illuminate the streets during the month of December, Christmas in Haïti is a time of great human warmth, family reunions and cultural events. This article explores the different customs and flavors that make Christmas in Haïti a unique and unforgettable experience.

First black nation to free itself from slavery and gain independence from France in 1804 and influenced other liberation movements around the world, inspiring struggles for freedom and equality.

Haïti is blessed with spectacular natural landscapes, including white sand beaches, mountains and rich biodiversity.

Haïti has a rich historical heritage, including sites like the Citadelle Laferrière and the Sans-Souci Palace, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Haïti has a rich and diverse culture, influenced by African, European and indigenous elements. Haitian music, dance, art and cuisine are celebrated around the world.