Haiti Policy House – Contributor Guidelines for Guest Writers

Last Updated: May 2025

We welcome submissions from experts, practitioners, and members of the Haitian diaspora who are passionate about Haiti’s future and want to contribute to evidence-based dialogue, policy reform, and global engagement. Below is our format guide to help writers develop impactful, publishable pieces aligned with Haiti Policy House’s voice and mission.

1. Choose a Format

We accept submissions in two primary styles. You may choose one based on the nature of your contribution:

A. Analytical Article

Purpose: Research-driven insight to inform policymakers and professionals
Length: 1,200–2,000 words
Tone: Objective, strategic, and policy-focused

Structure:

  1. Executive Summary (150–200 words):

    • What’s the issue?

    • Why does it matter now?

    • What should be done?

  2. Background/Context:

    • Define the problem using historical and/or geopolitical framing.

    • Use data, key facts, and references where needed.

  3. Analysis:

    • Offer clear arguments supported by evidence.

    • Include policy implications or regional/global relevance.

    • Use subheadings to organize your arguments.

  4. Recommendations:

    • Provide 2–5 actionable policy solutions.

    • These can be targeted to Haiti, the U.S., multilateral actors, or civil society.

  5. Conclusion:

    • Brief summary and call to action or reflection on long-term significance.

Examples:

“Rethinking U.S.-Haiti Security Cooperation in the Era of Transnational Crime”

“Why the Windward Passage Still Matters: Haiti and Maritime Geopolitics”

B. Opinion Piece

Purpose: Personal, persuasive writing that brings public attention to an issue
Length: 600–900 words
Tone: Compelling, accessible, argument-driven

Structure:

  1. Hook / Lead Paragraph:

    • Grab the reader. Use a personal story, bold claim, or striking fact.

  2. Argument:

    • State your opinion clearly.

    • Use logic, examples, and personal experience or expertise to support it.

  3. Broader Significance:

    • Connect to Haiti’s current context, policy failures, or global dynamics.

  4. Takeaway:

    • End with urgency, a provocative insight, or a clear demand for change.

Examples:

“Instability in Haiti Is a Business Model—And the Profiteers Live in Miami”

“Don’t Call Us a Failed State. Call Out the Systems That Keep Failing Us.”

2. Submission Requirements

  • Original content only: We do not publish pieces already published elsewhere.

  • Citations: If you quote data or studies, use hyperlinks or footnotes (Chicago or APA).

  • Tone & language: Clear, concise, and compelling. Avoid jargon unless explained.

  • Audience: Our readers include U.S. policymakers, Haitian professionals, journalists, and diaspora leaders. Write for impact.

3. How to Submit

Please submit an abstract here

Include:

  • A short bio (2–3 sentences)

  • Any relevant links to your past work

Tips for Success

  • Be bold, but grounded in fact.

  • Avoid overused phrases like "Haiti is the poorest country…" unless you’re reframing it.

  • Think of the reader: What do you want them to understand, feel, or do after reading?