Dominican Republic Deports Over 35,000 Haitians in August Amid Growing Humanitarian Crisis
The Dominican Republic deported 35,276 Haitian nationals lacking legal status in August, marking the highest monthly total this year. This action brings the total number of deportations in 2025 to 250,741, according to the General Directorate of Migration (DGM), reports 24brussels.
The surge in deportations stems from a directive by President Luis Abinader, who has implemented a series of stringent immigration measures. Notably, in April, the government unveiled 15 additional policies aimed at tightening restrictions on migrants, including barriers to accessing public services such as healthcare. Humanitarian organizations have criticized these measures as discriminatory.
Reports from the United Nations indicate that the recent deportations have disproportionately affected vulnerable populations, including pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and children. The humanitarian agency emphasizes the significant risks these groups face upon being returned to Haiti, where essential services remain severely constrained.
As Haiti grapples with a deepening multifaceted crisis—affecting political stability, security, human rights, and humanitarian conditions—the repercussions have extended throughout the region. A recent UN report warns that armed gangs control substantial areas, leaving more than six million people in urgent need of assistance. Additionally, approximately 1.4 million individuals have been displaced, primarily women and children, amid escalating incidents of killings, abductions, and increased cases of sexual and gender-based violence.
The Dominican government’s policy has elicited a range of reactions, highlighting the ongoing tensions surrounding migration in the Caribbean. As the crisis unfolds, further scrutiny of the humanitarian implications of these deportations is anticipated.
Author: vmmh
Source: UN / Dominican Republic Government / Amnesty International
