Dominican Republic Implements Expulsion Plan for Undocumented Haitians

The Dominican Republic has initiated a plan to expel 10,000 undocumented Haitians weekly, addressing migration concerns as Haiti struggles with severe instability. This operation aims to manage high migrant populations and will begin immediately while ensuring human rights are observed. The Dominican government cites slow international aid as a motivating factor and seeks to enhance border security measures.

The Dominican Republic has announced a significant initiative to expel approximately 10,000 undocumented Haitians weekly, aimed at curbing illegal migration from Haiti amidst its ongoing instability. Presidential spokesman Homero Figueroa stated that the operation will commence immediately and adhere to strict protocols designed to uphold human rights during the expulsion process. This decision stems from frustrations with the international community’s slow response to restoring order in Haiti, where criminal gangs dominate large areas. The Dominican government has long faced migration challenges from Haiti, particularly under President Luis Abinader, who took office in 2020 and has adopted a firm stance on immigration. Notably, he constructed a 164-kilometer wall along the border and raised the number of deportations, with over 250,000 undocumented Haitians expelled in 2023 alone. This new plan, if fully implemented, would surpass the current population of Haitians residing in the Dominican Republic, estimated at 495,815. Additionally, the government plans to intensify border surveillance using drones and cameras, and to dismantle networks involved in human trafficking from Haiti. The background context reveals a complex history of conflict and inequality between the two nations, exacerbated by a catastrophic 2010 earthquake that led to Haiti’s economic collapse and subsequent upheaval due to gang violence. Throughout the presidential campaign, both President Abinader and his opponent disregarded calls from the international community to accept more migrants fleeing Haiti’s dire conditions, further highlighting the tensions surrounding this issue.

This development takes place within a larger context of migration from Haiti to the Dominican Republic, driven by ongoing turmoil in Haiti. Since the devastating earthquake in 2010, Haiti has struggled with political instability and violence, particularly from powerful gangs that threaten security and access to basic needs. The Dominican Republic has historically hosted a significant Haitian population seeking better living conditions, yet relations between the countries have been strained due to socioeconomic disparities and national policies aimed at containing migration. International responses, such as UN-approved efforts, have been slow to materialize, increasing frustrations within the Dominican government as it confronts the challenges posed by increased migration.

In summary, the Dominican Republic’s decision to expel 10,000 Haitians per week reflects a critical stance against the escalating migration crisis stemming from Haiti’s socioeconomic collapse. As the Dominican government implements this harsh policy, it calls for greater accountability from the international community in addressing the root causes of instability in Haiti. The situation underscores the complexity of migration dynamics in the Caribbean and the ongoing challenges faced by Haitian migrants.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com