The world has responded with tremendous generosity to the destruction in Haiti following last week's earthquake, but the breakdown of security and order in that nation threatens to multiply the already terrible death toll if the food, water and medicine pouring into the country can't be distributed properly. U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon plans to send 3,500 more peacekeeping troops to Haiti, and the first 1,700 of a planned force of 5,000 American soldiers and Marines has already arrived on the island and taken over key tasks, such as the running of the airport.
Given the history of American occupation and meddling in Haiti's affairs, the presence of so many American troops there is a tricky business, but it is necessary for the U.S. to take charge both in the effort to restore order and in the effort to rebuild. The fact that the U.S. has taken on this role has led to some grumbling in the international community, and there is a definite risk that it could ultimately be seen as less than benevolent by Haitians. But by virtue of our size, resources, experience and proximity, the U.S. has a unique ability and responsibility to take the lead role in the effort. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton needs to continue to focus on working closely with the Haitian government to ensure that our efforts there are successful and welcomed. For all the resentment American might has bred throughout the world and in Haiti in particular, now is an opportunity to show how our power can be used for good.
