[13] The Canadian government refused to recognize the 1988 Haitian national elections, which were marred by violence that left at least 34 people dead, and stated they were thinking of cutting $15 million in development aid.

For a brief 10-month period beginning in December 1990, Canada reinstated significant aid efforts in light of Jean-Bertrand Aristide being democratically elected as Prime Minister and promising to protect the fundamental human rights of his people.

[25] During this period, there were many cases of MIF-associated peacekeepers exploiting their newfound authority in the region to systematically sexually abuse Haitians.

[28] Beginning in roughly 2004, Canada's aid program implemented what is known as a whole-of-government approach that aimed to develop and support the transitional government.

[29] In 2006 Canada assisted in international efforts to help Haiti complete its first full electoral cycle since its constitution entered into force in 1987.

The Government of Canada through the Canadian International Development Agency contributed nearly $40 million for the electoral process, providing observers and technical assistance.

The Governor General of Canada, Michaelle Jean (herself of Haitian origin) attended the inauguration of President Rene Preval on May 14, 2006, as the Canadian representative.

[32] Haiti is considered a fragile state under the Canadian definition of the concept, as the government does not provide basic services to its citizens.

CIDA has created a development plan for nations it deems as fragile states, specifically Haiti, Afghanistan, Sudan formerly unified, and the West Bank and Gaza Strip called the New Deal.

Though CIDA has outlined good governance as one of its priorities, NGOs have been providing over 80% of the basic services in Haiti, thus receiving a large part of the Canadian aid money.

[34] A large number of Canadian development workers are present in Haiti, including hundreds of missionaries working primarily in the health and education sectors.

[29] In February 2009, the Canadian government announced it will focus foreign aid on 20 countries or regions where it hopes to have a bigger impact, including Haiti.

[29] In January 2013, Canada's Minister of International Cooperation, Julian Fantino, announced that the government would be reviewing the aid being remitted to Haiti, citing concerns regarding the results of the use of the funds.

[38] There remains a security warning from the government of Canada to exercise caution when travelling to the country, however there is not presently an advisory in effect for Haiti.