Haitian Leader Critiques Dominican Immigration Policy as Threatening Migrant Rights

Wendy Osirus, a Haitian leader, has raised concerns about President Luis Abinader’s immigration measures to repatriate 10,000 undocumented migrants weekly, suggesting it allows harmful practices by migration agents and instills fear among migrants. She calls for adherence to legal frameworks and due process in the deportation process, stressing the economic contributions of migrants.

In Santiago, Wendy Osirus, a prominent Haitian leader and ambassador of goodwill and hope for Haiti, recently voiced her apprehension regarding President Luis Abinader’s new immigration policies. The proposed measures advocate for the repatriation of 10,000 undocumented immigrants weekly, a move Osirus deems as extending “the blessing” to harmful practices perpetuated by migration agents. Osirus articulated her concerns, stating, “I’m not worried about the trucks, I’m not worried about sending irregular Haitians to Haiti, I’m worried about the practices of the agents now that they have the blessing of the central state.” She highlighted that these new measures have instilled a heightened sense of fear among migrants, causing many to refrain from seeking employment due to fears of potential reprisals. According to her observations, arrests of undocumented individuals have surged alarmingly in recent months. Additionally, Osirus emphasized that the prevailing situation is dire, asserting that the rhetoric surrounding the new policies has emboldened agents to infringe upon the rights of undocumented migrants. Contrasting this perspective, the president of the Movement for Rights, Peace, and Global Justice (MONDHA) reinforced that the Dominican Republic is predicated on the rule of law, and therefore, its legislative actions should not be construed as violations of human rights. Osirus consequently urged the Dominican government to reconsider its immigration strategy, advocating for adherence to existing legislative frameworks, particularly the Dominican Constitution, the 1999 Protocol between the Dominican Republic and Haiti on repatriations, and the Migration Law 285-04. She also referenced the thousands of Haitians who have participated in the National Regularization Plan, emphasizing that 98% of those individuals contribute positively to the Dominican economy. She concluded her remarks by asserting, “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.”

The topic at hand pertains to recent changes in migration policies implemented by the Dominican Republic under the leadership of President Luis Abinader. These policies have sparked substantial debate and concern within the Haitian community, particularly regarding the treatment of undocumented immigrants. The views expressed by Haitian leader Wendy Osirus reflect broader concerns about human rights and due process for those facing deportation. In this context, Osirus advocates for a balanced approach that considers the contributions of migrants to the Dominican economy while ensuring that their rights are respected under the law. The issue is part of ongoing discussions about migration in the region, as both countries navigate complex socio-economic challenges.

In conclusion, Wendy Osirus’s apprehension about the Dominican Republic’s new immigration policies underscores significant concerns regarding the rights of undocumented immigrants. She argues that these policies could lead to increased abuses by migration agents, further harming vulnerable populations. Emphasizing the importance of due process and adherence to existing legal frameworks, Osirus advocates for a reconsideration of the government’s approach to ensure that the rights and contributions of migrants are recognized and protected. The discourse highlights a critical intersection of immigration policy, human rights, and economic contributions, necessitating a careful examination by Dominican authorities.

Original Source: dominicantoday.com