The President of the Dominican Republic, Luis Abinader, has affirmed his country’s stance on expelling Haitians and rejecting the establishment of refugee camps, despite calls from international organizations urging a halt to expulsions and the acceptance of Haitians escaping violence.
In a recent interview, Abinader stated that his administration will persist in formulating and implementing migration-related laws.
He emphasized the need for greater action from the United Nations and criticized the perceived inefficiency of U.S. aid to Haiti, noting that the Dominican Republic cannot be solely responsible for addressing Haiti’s challenges.
Abinader pointed out that there are viable alternatives within Haitian territory, such as the islands of La Gonavd and La Tortue, and reiterated the Dominican Republic’s refusal to permit refugee camps on its soil.
He defended his country’s approach by citing similar policies adopted by other nations like the Bahamas, Jamaica, the United States, and Canada, underscoring the Dominican Republic’s significant support for Haitians, particularly in healthcare.
Abinader’s remarks come in the midst of international pressure for the Dominican Republic to accommodate Haitian refugees.
