Paradise Lost is the second part of a four-part series examining failed states. The program focuses on Haiti, the first black republic and the poorest country in the western hemisphere. It also is a prime example of a country that has a history of failure to provide for its citizens and the stories of violence and lack of services referred to in Paradise Lost are horrific.

This well researched documentary is primarily comprised of interviews with experts from non-governmental organizations and, although it is well produced, the program moves a bit too quickly through several topics. The opening segments are the most compelling with startling statistics on violence and the health care crisis. The program could also benefit from more interviews with some of Haiti?s citizens about the challenges of daily life.

For those of us living in the western hemisphere, it?s important for us to understand our neighbors and Paradise Lost is a good introduction to the problems one of our poorest.