The Dominican Republic has initiated a plan to expel 10,000 undocumented Haitian migrants weekly as part of a crackdown on migration resulting from instability in Haiti. This decision is attributed to the international community’s inadequate response and aims to alleviate excessive migrant populations in Dominican territories. President Luis Abinader’s administration has significantly increased deportations and plans to enhance border security while confronting human trafficking.
On Wednesday, the Dominican Republic announced a decisive measure aimed at expelling 10,000 undocumented Haitian migrants each week as part of a broader initiative to control the influx of migrants stemming from the ongoing crises in Haiti. Presidential spokesman Homero Figueroa emphasized that this operation seeks to address the “excessive migrant populations” observed within Dominican communities, noting that the expulsions would commence “immediately” and adhere to “strict protocols that ensure respect for human rights.” This policy was implemented amid concerns over the international community’s “slowness” in restoring stability to Haiti, which has been significantly impacted by the activities of criminal gangs. In response to these challenges, a UN-sanctioned multinational force led by Kenya has been deployed to Haiti to help re-establish order. Dominican President Luis Abinader, who has maintained a stringent approach towards migration from Haiti since assuming office in 2020, has stated, “We warned at the United Nations that either it and all the countries that had committed themselves act responsibly in Haiti, or we will.” Under Abinader’s administration, measures to control migration have included the construction of a 164-kilometer concrete wall along the border, with plans to extend it following his recent re-election. Furthermore, the Dominican government has dramatically increased deportations, expelling approximately 250,000 undocumented Haitians in the year 2023 alone. The newly announced plan would potentially double this figure within a twelve-month period, surpassing the estimated 495,815 Haitians currently residing in the Dominican Republic. Additionally, the government has outlined a strategy to identify and dismantle human trafficking networks operating from Haiti and has pledged to enhance surveillance capabilities through drones and cameras along the border. The Dominican Republic, occupying the eastern two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola, has historically had complex relations with Haiti, its impoverished neighbor. Many Haitians have sought opportunities in the Dominican Republic, which boasts a rapidly growing economy and is a popular tourist destination in the Caribbean. The turmoil in Haiti has escalated since the catastrophic earthquake in 2010, leading to significant economic decline and a rise in gang violence. According to the UN human rights office, over 3,600 individuals have lost their lives in gang-related incidents this year alone, with more than 700,000 individuals displaced, over half of whom are children. Notably, during the presidential campaign, both President Abinader and his primary opponent dismissed international calls to accommodate more Haitian refugees, highlighting the contentious nature of immigration policy in the region.
The situation in Haiti continues to deteriorate, characterized by political instability and rampant gang violence, which has resulted in millions of people seeking refuge in neighboring countries, particularly the Dominican Republic. The economic collapse and civil unrest have prompted a significant number of Haitians to migrate in search of better living conditions. Historically, the Dominican Republic has been a destination for Haitians fleeing dire circumstances, which has created friction in cross-border relations due to cultural and economic disparities. The current refugee crisis is exacerbated by the slow response of the international community to provide necessary aid and restore order in Haiti, compelling neighboring states to take unilateral actions to manage migration flows.
The Dominican Republic’s recent announcement to expel 10,000 undocumented Haitians weekly signals a shift in its immigration policy, driven by the desire to manage migrant populations amid ongoing instability in Haiti. While the government emphasizes adherence to human rights protocols, there remains a significant concern regarding the treatment of Haitian migrants, who often face discrimination. The complexities of the situation underscore the necessity for a coordinated international response to address the root causes of migration and stabilize Haiti for the long-term benefit of its citizens and neighboring countries.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
