The Dominican Republic plans to expel 10,000 undocumented Haitians each week due to increasing migration driven by instability and violence in Haiti. This policy aims to control the migrant population while ensuring humane treatment during the deportation process. President Luis Abinader’s administration has reinforced strict anti-migration measures since 2020, raising concerns about discrimination and the humanitarian crisis faced by Haitians.
The Dominican Republic has announced a significant policy shift aimed at expelling 10,000 undocumented Haitian migrants weekly as part of a broader effort to address the increasing migrant population from Haiti. This decision, prompted by ongoing gang violence and instability in Haiti, was disclosed by presidential spokesman Homero Figueroa, who emphasized that the operation would commence immediately, adhering to strict protocols to ensure the humane treatment of individuals affected by the deportations. The Dominican government is motivated by perceived inefficiencies in international intervention in Haiti, where a UN-approved force, led by Kenya, has recently been deployed to restore order. President Luis Abinader has taken a contentious stance on Haitian migration since his election in 2020, solidifying his administration’s anti-migration policies by constructing a concrete barrier along the border and ramping up deportations, which have reached 250,000 already this year. The forthcoming plan to expel 10,000 migrants weekly is set to significantly escalate these numbers, potentially affecting the estimated 495,815 Haitians currently residing in the Dominican Republic. Furthermore, the administration intends to enhance surveillance along the border and dismantle human trafficking networks. The historical context of Dominican-Haitian relations reveals long-standing tensions, fueled by Haiti’s economic collapse and the resulting influx of migrants seeking better living conditions.
The Dominican Republic shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti, which has faced dire socioeconomic crises exacerbated by natural disasters, such as the 2010 earthquake, and subsequent political turbulence leading to rampant gang violence. This instability has resulted in profound humanitarian challenges, with the United Nations reporting thousands of deaths and mass displacement within Haiti. For many years, Haitians have sought refuge in the Dominican Republic, which is perceived as a more stable and prosperous nation. Nevertheless, this migration wave has stirred significant controversy and resistance within the Dominican Republic, often manifesting as discriminatory practices against Haitian migrants. Moreover, this issue has been compounded by the Dominican government’s strict immigration policies, notably observed during the president’s campaign period where both candidates rebuffed calls from the international community to accept more Haitian refugees.
In conclusion, the Dominican Republic’s announcement to expel 10,000 undocumented Haitians weekly marks a significant policy change in response to the ongoing migration crisis stemming from Haiti’s instability. This initiative aims not only to control the migrant population but also to reinforce border security and tackle human trafficking. The decision, influenced by a perceived inadequacy of international efforts to stabilize Haiti, underscores the complex dynamics between the two nations and the humanitarian implications of such deportations amidst Haiti’s escalating violence and poverty.
Original Source: www.france24.com
