The Dominican Republic announced plans to deport 10,000 undocumented Haitians weekly as part of an effort to mitigate irregular migration due to Haiti’s instability. This response follows frustrations over international inaction and aims to uphold human rights during the deportation process. President Abinader’s administration has escalated deportations significantly in recent years, reflecting ongoing tensions between the two nations.
On October 2, 2023, the Dominican Republic announced a significant initiative aimed at addressing undocumented migration from Haiti, declaring its intent to deport 10,000 undocumented Haitian nationals per week. This operation is part of a broader crackdown on irregular migration from Haiti, which has long been plagued by violence and instability. Homero Figueroa, the presidential spokesman, stated that the goal of this initiative is to alleviate what he termed the “excessive migrant populations” present in various Dominican communities. He assured that the deportations would commence immediately and that they would be executed in accordance with strict protocols designed to uphold the respect for human rights. The government’s decision is reportedly influenced by the international community’s perceived inaction regarding the restoration of stability in Haiti, a country that has witnessed significant turmoil due to gang violence. In this matter, President Luis Abinader articulated his frustrations, emphasizing that, “We warned at the United Nations that either it and all the countries that had committed themselves act responsibly in Haiti, or we will.” This statement highlights the Dominican Republic’s confrontational stance regarding the management of Haitian migration, particularly since Abinader assumed office in 2020. Under President Abinader’s administration, deportations have accelerated significantly, with 250,000 undocumented Haitians expelled from the Dominican Republic in just 2023 alone. This comes alongside the construction of a substantial concrete wall, measuring 164 kilometers (approximately 102 miles), along the border between the two nations, which Abinader vowed to extend should he be re-elected in May for a second term. The ongoing situation reflects the complexities and challenges faced by both countries on the island of Hispaniola, particularly in relation to the regional crisis in Haiti.
The current migration crisis in the Dominican Republic is largely attributed to the socio-political upheaval in Haiti, a nation grappling with severe gang violence and a deteriorating economy. The influx of Haitian migrants has become a contentious issue within Dominica’s society, prompting the government to take drastic measures to control migration flows. The Dominican authorities’ actions are underscored by a perception of urgency due to the slow response from the international community, particularly in efforts to stabilize Haiti. This has led to heightened tensions and a significant shift in the Dominican Republic’s immigration policies.
In summary, the Dominican Republic’s recent commitment to deport 10,000 undocumented Haitians weekly reflects its urgent response to the ongoing migration issues stemming from Haiti’s instability. With the government taking tangible steps to bolster its immigration enforcement and manage the increasing number of migrants, this situation underscores the profound complexities facing the Dominican Republic as it grapples with humanitarian, social, and political challenges.
Original Source: www.lemonde.fr
