FRONTLINE | The Quake | Season 2010 | Episode 5

Overview

• Title: The Quake
• Season: 2010
• Episode: 5
• Air Date: March 30, 2010
• Duration: 56 minutes 12 seconds
• Genre: News and Public Affairs
• Rating: Not Rated (NR)
• Summary: A powerful report on the tragedy in Haiti, featuring never-before-seen footage of the aftermath of the earthquake. Raises questions about the slow relief response and explores what can be done now and who will do it.

Key Themes and Issues

The Earthquake in Haiti

• Struck at the heart of a desperately poor and vulnerable country.
• An estimated one in ten people in the capital, Port-au-Prince, died.
• Caused massive destruction of infrastructure, including schools, hospitals, and government buildings.
• Resulted in over one million people becoming homeless.

Humanitarian Response

• Initial responses were slow, with significant challenges in coordination and capacity.
• United Nations and NGOs faced logistical challenges in delivering aid.
• The Haitian government was criticized for its lack of presence and communication post-disaster.
• Makeshift camps were set up, with limited resources such as food, water, and sanitation facilities.

Key Interviews and Perspectives

• Martin Smith, Correspondent: Reports on the devastation and challenges in aid distribution.
• Kim Bolduc, UN Aid Coordinator: Highlights the lack of coordination in initial relief efforts.
• Dr. Mitchell Schuster, Medical Doctor: Describes the dire medical conditions and lack of supplies.
• Witlet Maceno, Nurse: Shares experiences of trying to provide care amidst chaos.

Historical Context

• Haiti's history of colonial exploitation, successful slave revolt, and ongoing struggles with political instability.
• Past foreign interventions and the role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Haiti.

Moving Forward

• Discussion on the role of international aid, the need for better coordination, and the potential for rebuilding.
• Challenges of upcoming rainy season and risks of epidemic diseases in camps.
• The importance of involving the Haitian government in rebuilding efforts and reducing dependency on NGOs.

Significant Quotes

• "To the people of Haiti, we say, 'You will not be forgotten.'"
• "The bodies were hauled to mass graves just north of town."
• "In the first week, only an eighth of the population had received food and water."

Conclusion

The episode sheds light on the immediate impact and ongoing challenges following the Haiti earthquake. It calls for a reconsideration of aid strategies and highlights the resilience and needs of the Haitian people. The importance of collaboration between the Haitian government, international community, and NGOs is emphasized to effectively address the crisis.