The Dominican Republic has announced a plan to deport 10,000 undocumented Haitians per week amid ongoing gang violence and political instability in Haiti. This initiative, aimed at controlling excessive migration, begins immediately under strict protocols. President Luis Abinader, advocating for tougher immigration policies, has already deported 250,000 Haitians in 2023 and plans to enhance border surveillance. The situation highlights ongoing tension between the two nations, compounded by historical economic disparities and discrimination faced by Haitian communities in the Dominican Republic.
The Dominican Republic has initiated a controversial plan to deport 10,000 undocumented Haitians weekly as part of a broader strategy to curb migration from Haiti, which is currently plagued by significant social and economic instability. This decision comes amid escalating gang violence in Haiti, which has resulted in the deaths of over 3,600 individuals this year alone. Presidential spokesman Homero Figueroa stated that the operation is geared toward reducing the “excessive migrant populations detected in Dominican communities,” emphasizing that the deportations would commence immediately and adhere to strict protocols to respect human rights. The Dominican government has expressed frustration with the international community’s slow response to restore order in Haiti, which has seen a rise in criminal gang activity. In response, a UN-approved multinational force led by Kenya has been dispatched to assist Haiti in stabilizing the situation. President Luis Abinader, who has adopted a stringent approach towards migration since taking office, reinforced his dedication to border control by erecting a significant concrete wall and pledging to enhance it further. Under his governance, the number of deportations has surged, with 250,000 undocumented Haitians expelled this year alone, and the newly announced plan would result in a substantial increase in that figure. Additionally, the Dominican Republic aims to identify and dismantle human trafficking networks and enhance surveillance along the border through drones and cameras. The long-standing relationship between the Dominican Republic and Haiti has been strained, influenced by economic disparities and recurring humanitarian crises that have prompted numerous Haitians to seek refuge in the Dominican Republic, known for its burgeoning economy and tourism appeal. Haitian communities within the Dominican Republic have reportedly faced systemic discrimination and racism, which complicates the narrative surrounding these deportations. The current political climate, coupled with a rejection of international pressure to accept more Haitian migrants, indicates a challenging road ahead for both nations.
The Dominican Republic shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti and has a complex historical relationship with its neighbor, which has been marred by inequities, economic disparities, and humanitarian crises. The assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021 and subsequent gang violence have exacerbated this situation, leading to a sharp increase in the number of Haitians fleeing to the Dominican Republic in search of safety and stability. However, as the flows of migrants continue, the Dominican government has intensified its efforts to control the border and manage the increasing population of undocumented Haitians.
The Dominican Republic’s initiative to deport 10,000 undocumented Haitians weekly marks a significant escalation in its migration policies, responding to both internal pressures and external frustrations regarding the situation in Haiti. With a backdrop of escalating violence and economic turmoil in Haiti, this policy raises questions about human rights considerations and the future of Haitian communities in the Dominican Republic. As the government navigates these challenges, the implications of such a stringent approach will likely continue to unfold in the region.
Original Source: www.france24.com
