Haitian government concerned about “xenophobic” acts against its citizens in the Dominican Republic

Port-au-Prince.- The Haitian Government expressed its “concern about xenophobic acts” that it considers are being committed against the Haitian community in the Dominican Republic, in particular “the mistreatment inflicted on pregnant and breastfeeding Haitian women“.

The Haitian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced in a statement that it has instructed its ambassador to the Dominican Republic, Fritz Longchamps, to deploy members of the diplomatic representation in Santo Domingo and consular staff in “sensitive” areas such as Dajabón and Bávaro.

The diplomat was instructed to organize voluntary repatriation caravans for his fellow citizens in dignified conditions, but also to demand “systematically from the Dominican authorities respect for the rights of Haitians and to demand investigations into the main cases of violation of the rights of Haitians.”

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The Foreign Office stated that it “welcomes” any solidarity action in Haiti or abroad in favor of its compatriots, always within the framework of the law and international conventions.

He reiterated “the Haitian government’s willingness to prioritize dialogue“, while inviting all sectors, civil society organizations, and human rights organizations “to join their voices so that the rights of their compatriots are respected wherever they may be”.

The Dominican Republic implemented a massive deportation program last October and has strengthened border controls with a fence it is building on the border, the use of advanced technology equipment, and the deployment of thousands of troops.

Likewise, it has tightened measures internally with decisions such as deporting undocumented Haitians who go to hospitals and other public health centers once they have been treated.

These actions have been criticized by the United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, and Amnesty International.

The Dominican government maintains that this measure is part of several provisions it is implementing to safeguard national security in the face of the crisis that, in practically all areas, affects the neighboring country.