Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader cautioned about potential drastic measures to ensure national security if a U.N.-backed anti-gang mission in Haiti fails. He highlighted the escalating gang violence in Haiti, the critical need for free elections, and the resulting humanitarian impact on the Dominican Republic, amid rising deportation and human rights concerns.
The President of the Dominican Republic, Luis Abinader, expressed concern regarding the ongoing security situation in Haiti, warning that his government would implement “drastic measures” to safeguard the nation if a U.N.-backed mission aimed at combating gang violence in Haiti does not succeed. Speaking at the U.N. General Assembly in New York, Abinader did not specify what actions his administration might undertake. The situation in Haiti has deteriorated significantly, with gangs controlling approximately 80% of the capital, Port-au-Prince, following the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021. This has led to widespread instability, displacing nearly 700,000 Haitians and prompting a mass exodus into the Dominican Republic. The Dominican president acknowledged the role of Kenya in leading the mission with nearly 400 police officers, which has been further supported by personnel from Jamaica and Belize. However, Abinader noted that this force falls far short of the 2,500 troops pledged, which has led to concerns about the mission’s effectiveness and resources, as the U.S. government has indicated the need for a more substantial peacekeeping operation. Abinader emphasized the necessity for the successful establishment of the current mission to enable free and fair elections in Haiti, which have not occurred since 2016, despite a transitional council being tasked to facilitate them by February 2026. He stated, “Practically one year from the holding of elections, the conditions are still not in place to do so,” underscoring the critical nature of the situation by asserting, “If that were to happen, Haiti’s collapse would be imminent.” Recent coordinated attacks by gangs in Haiti, including assaults on police stations and the main international airport, have further strained the situation, leading to the resignation of former Prime Minister Ariel Henry. Abinader pointed out the resulting implications for the Dominican Republic, noting, “More than three years of instability in our neighboring country has put significant pressure on our own security.” The Dominican Republic has absorbed a substantial burden due to this crisis, with data showing that 10% of medical appointments in the country involved Haitians. Abinader stated, “The crisis in Haiti warrants particular attention. We can’t do it alone.” In response to the demographic challenges, his administration reportedly deported over 170,000 individuals believed to be of Haitian descent last year. However, human rights activists have criticized these deportations, alleging a continued violation of human rights against Haitians and individuals born to Haitian parents in the Dominican Republic—a claim Abinader has firmly dismissed, affirming that “the Dominican government is profoundly committed to protecting human rights.” In his address, Abinader also highlighted significant strides made within the Dominican Republic, noting the country’s lowest poverty rate in history at 19% and a decline in the murder rate to 10 per 100,000 inhabitants. Edgard Leblanc Fils, chairman of Haiti’s transitional presidential council, is scheduled to address the U.N. General Assembly shortly after Abinader’s speech.
The article discusses the ongoing security crisis in Haiti, specifically concerning the dominance of gangs that have severely impacted the nation since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse. The Dominican Republic, sharing the island of Hispaniola with Haiti, is particularly concerned about the spillover effects of this instability, prompting President Luis Abinader to warn of potential drastic measures if current international efforts to stabilize Haiti fail. The Dominican government has had to manage a significant influx of Haitian refugees and face increasing security challenges while also striving to protect human rights amid criticism of its deportation policies.
In summary, President Luis Abinader of the Dominican Republic has signaled the potential for severe actions should the U.N.-backed mission in Haiti falter. The deteriorating security situation in Haiti, exacerbated by gang activity and a lack of resources for stabilization efforts, poses substantial risks not only to Haitians but also to the Dominican Republic. Abinader’s assertions regarding the urgency for effective international intervention underscore the precarious balance of security and humanitarian concerns facing both nations.
Original Source: apnews.com
