Dominican Republic Implements Plan to Expel 10,000 Undocumented Haitians Weekly
The Dominican Republic has announced a plan to expel 10,000 undocumented Haitians weekly as a part of a migration crackdown. This decision is driven by concerns over excessive undocumented populations and a perceived lack of international action to stabilize Haiti, which is afflicted by gang violence. The government has intensified deportation efforts, having expelled 250,000 Haitians in 2023, and is set to implement stricter immigration controls, including increased surveillance at the border.
On Wednesday, the Dominican Republic introduced a decisive plan to commence the expulsion of 10,000 undocumented Haitians on a weekly basis as part of a broader migration enforcement strategy. Presidential spokesman, Mr. Homero Figueroa, stated, “This operation aims to reduce the excessive migrant populations detected in Dominican communities,” emphasizing that these expulsions would begin “immediately” and will adhere to stringent protocols designed to uphold human rights. The government’s action is reportedly motivated by the perceived “slowness” of the international community in reestablishing stability in Haiti, a nation profoundly affected by criminal violence and gang activities. Following considerable delays, a UN-sanctioned force led by Kenya has been deployed to Haiti in a bid to restore order. President Luis Abinader expressed at the United Nations, “We warned at the United Nations that either it and all the countries that had committed themselves act responsibly in Haiti, or we will.” Since assuming office in 2020, President Abinader has adopted a stringent stance on Haitian migration, erecting a substantial 164-kilometer concrete barrier along the border and committing to its expansion after winning re-election in May. The Dominican government has notably intensified its deportation efforts, expelling approximately 250,000 undocumented Haitians in 2023 alone. The newly announced plan aims to significantly increase this figure, which already exceeds the 495,815 Haitians recorded as residing in the Dominican Republic, according to official statistics. Mr. Figueroa indicated that authorities are formulating a strategy to identify and dismantle human trafficking networks operating from Haiti while also enhancing drone and camera surveillance at the border. The Dominican Republic shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti, a historically contentious relationship marred by economic disparities and cultural differences. Despite being a Caribbean tourism destination with a rapidly growing economy, the Dominican Republic has seen a persistent influx of Haitians seeking better living conditions. The ongoing economic collapse and surge in gang-related violence in Haiti, exacerbated by the catastrophic earthquake in 2010, continue to drive this migration. As reported by the UN human rights office, over 3,600 individuals have lost their lives in gang violence in Haiti within this year alone, with more than 700,000 people displaced, including a significant proportion of children.
The migration between Haiti and the Dominican Republic has been characterized by complex historical and socio-economic factors. The Dominican Republic, covering the eastern two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola, is predominantly Spanish-speaking and has a considerably higher standard of living compared to Haiti, where French and Creole are the primary languages. The Haitian population has frequently sought refuge and opportunities in the Dominican Republic, especially following crises such as the 2010 earthquake that devastated Haiti’s infrastructure and economy. The current situation in Haiti remains dire, with rampant gang violence leading to widespread instability and displacement, prompting the Dominican government to implement stricter immigration measures as a response to the escalating immigration issues that are perceived to threaten local communities.
In summary, the Dominican Republic’s new plan to expel 10,000 undocumented Haitians weekly marks a significant escalation in its immigration policy. This decision is influenced by the ongoing crises in Haiti, characterized by instability and violence, alongside growing pressures on Dominican communities. The government insists on maintaining strict protocols to ensure human rights are respected throughout this operation. President Abinader’s administration appears resolute in addressing the challenges posed by migration while also seeking cooperation from the international community to stabilize Haiti.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
