The trade embargo against Haiti was enacted as a direct response to the military coup that deposed President Jean-Bertrand Aristide in September 1991. Aristide, a former Catholic priest and the first democratically elected president of Haiti, faced significant opposition from the military and elite sectors, which led to his ousting and the rise of a military junta. Following the coup, a humanitarian crisis ensued, characterized by human rights abuses and a deepening economic crisis. In response, the international community mobilized to restore democracy in Haiti and support Aristide's return to power.

The embargo, introduced by the United Nations and supported by the United States, took effect on May 22, 1994, prohibiting the import and export of goods to and from Haiti. The intention was to apply economic pressure on the military regime to comply with international calls for the reinstatement of Aristide. The embargo, while aimed at causing the military leadership to reconsider its position, also had significant repercussions for the Haitian people, who faced shortages of food, fuel, and medical supplies. The situation highlighted the challenges of imposing economic sanctions, as often, the most vulnerable populations suffer the most.

As tensions escalated, the United Nations authorized a multinational force to intervene in Haiti and restore Aristide to power. Eventually, in September 1994, U.S. forces landed in Haiti, facilitating Aristide's return while effectively dismantling the military's grip on power. This complex series of events demonstrated the international community's commitment to supporting democratic governance while also revealing the difficult balance between punitive measures and humanitarian considerations.