The Foreign Service Journal, April 2010

44 F O R E I G N S E R V I C E J O U R N A L / A P R I L 2 0 1 0 • Emphasize the need for constant dialogue and open and transparent communications. • Remain mindful that all cit- izens must perceive they are ben- efiting in some manner. This underscores the importance of public awareness campaigns; pub- lic emphasis on positive changes; provision of mechanisms and ac- tivities in which all can partici- pate; and provision of tools whereby individuals can regain control over their lives and personal decisions. • Regenerate community and family-level livelihoods to instill self-sufficiency and self-confidence, and give back control to the individual and family. • Ensure equitable distribution of relief, recovery and economic growth. Social violence is often linked to per- ceived inequities in distribution of national finances and foreign aid in reconstruction efforts, as well to differences of opinion in the allo- cation of jobs and government- supported projects. As Sec. Clinton noted in her Jan. 25 remarks on Haiti, “It is critical that the same energy and generosity that is being put into the humanitarian effort is main- tained over the long term.” Aceh’s emergence over the past five years from the depths of the tsunami’s devastation reminds us that, while the road to recovery will be long for Haiti, there is great potential for positive, long-term results. ■ Brigid Reilly Weiller Political Officer and AFSA Representative Embassy Jakarta F O C U S What should the United States focus on as international recovery assistance to Haiti proceeds?