The facts:
Recently, the mayor of Dajabón, Santiago Riverón, granted Haitian nationals in an irregular situation a five-day deadline to leave the housing they occupy in this border town with the Dominican Republic. According to press reports of his comments, he declared:
“We will remove them by honest or illicit means.”
Background:
Dajabón is a strategic border town marking an important crossing point between Haiti and the Dominican Republic.
For several years, migration issues between the two countries have been a source of tension, particularly due to the significant number of Haitian migrants in the Dominican Republic.
The Dominican authorities regularly carry out expulsion and control operations targeting illegal immigrants, primarily Haitians.
Reactions and issues:
Controversial remarks: The mayor’s statements referring to “illicit” means have caused great concern among human rights activists and the international community, who fear forced expulsions and violence.
Humanitarian situation: Many Haitians living in Dajabón and other border regions are in a precarious situation, often lacking access to decent housing and basic services.
Bilateral relations: This decision risks exacerbating the already fragile bilateral relations between the two countries, which have been weakened by historical disputes and recurring migratory crises.
To be continued.
This situation is likely to provoke reactions from NGOs, international organizations, and the Haitian government.
Observers are calling for respect of human rights and more humane and concerted management of migration issues at the border.
