Wendy Osirus, a Haitian leader, criticized the Dominican Republic’s new policy to repatriate 10,000 undocumented immigrants weekly, claiming it empowers exploitative practices by migration agents. He expressed concerns over the heightened fear among migrants and urged for a reconsideration of the government’s approach to ensure adherence to legal rights and due process.
In a recent statement, Wendy Osirus, a prominent Haitian leader and ambassador of goodwill for Haiti, expressed deep concerns regarding the Dominican Republic’s initiative under President Luis Abinader to repatriate an estimated 10,000 undocumented immigrants weekly. Osirus criticized this policy as it disproportionately favors migration agents engaged in exploitative practices, thereby granting them what he termed “the blessing” to act without restraint. Osirus elaborated on the escalating fear among migrants, stating, “Migrants are more scared than ever; many do not go out to work for fear of reprisals.” He pointed out that the increasing frequency of arrests in recent months has exacerbated this atmosphere of fear, further endangering the rights and safety of undocumented immigrants. While acknowledging the Dominican Republic’s legal framework as a state governed by law, Osirus urged the government to reconsider its stringent approach to immigration. He underscored the importance of adherence to the Constitution, the 1999 protocol on repatriations between the Dominican Republic and Haiti, and the Migration Law 285-04. Osirus emphasized that many undocumented Haitians contribute positively to the Dominican economy, suggesting that due diligence must be exercised in deportation processes. He affirmed, “And it is fine, they have the right to deport all migrants, all those who are irregular, undocumented, but the Government must always think of due process.” This commentary highlights the complexities surrounding migration policies and their implications for human rights and economic contributions.
The backdrop of this discussion involves the ongoing migration crisis affecting the Caribbean region, where undocumented immigration has become a pressing issue for neighboring nations, particularly between Haiti and the Dominican Republic. The Dominican government, facing political and social pressures, has elected to undertake a more aggressive stance on immigration enforcement, leading to significant repatriation efforts targeting Haitian nationals. Wendy Osirus’s remarks reflect broader concerns regarding the treatment of vulnerable migrant populations and the potential misuse of legal frameworks by unscrupulous migration agents, thereby raising fundamental questions about human rights obligations under national and international laws.
In conclusion, Wendy Osirus’s concerns regarding the Dominican Republic’s immigration policy underscore the intricate balance between enforcing immigration laws and safeguarding human rights. His appeals for due process and consideration of the contributions of undocumented migrants illustrate the need for a compassionate and fair approach to immigration in the context of international legal standards. As this situation evolves, it remains imperative for lawmakers to prioritize ethical governance that respects the dignity of all individuals, including migrants.
Original Source: dominicantoday.com
