Haiti earthquake aftermath

International wrestling for pawns

The magnitude seven earthquake in Haiti created a humanitarian disaster of immense complexity. It has been followed by a massive response, which riveted several nations worldwide. But what is really happening on backstage is Haiti becoming a stage for power wrestling. Rivalry between Brazil and US foreign policies are bubbling. China and Taiwan continue to use the Caribbean country in their churning game. Washington put his foot down and seems it will maintain its long-term opposition to Haiti's autonomy. Now these same countries claim they are together to rebuild it... full story


By LUAN GALANI
from Curitiba, BRAZIL

Interview: Fredy Rivera, Hilfswerk Austria International

Children are priority
"Earthquake happened on 12th of January, 4:50 in the afternoon. I got SMS from our partners in Port-au-Prince. They tried to explain the situation but they didn't know how big the earthquake was and how wast consequences it had"


By DANICA VLAČIĆ
from Wien, AUSTRIA



Interview: Renato Lima, Cenacid co-ordinator

The worst is about to come
"Countless Haitians were flocked at the large Champs de Mars (Square of March), setting tents up and waiting for aid. By the time we approached, those thousands of people began to chant: "Blanc! Blanc! Blanc! (White! White! White!)" It gradually rose in volume clearly to warn others of our strange presence. Then, some saw the Brazilian flag on our shirts and spread the news like wildfire: we were Brazilians. Unexpectedly, they rushed, clustered around and greeted us warmly"


By LUAN GALANI
from Curitiba, BRAZIL