DR legislators opposed to complete border closure with Haiti

Amid Haiti’s deepening humanitarian crisis and rising violence, both government and opposition senators in the Dominican Republic have voiced opposition to a full border closure with Haiti. Instead, they are calling for stronger border controls to curb the illegal entry of Haitian migrants while still maintaining some level of cross-border interaction.

According to Senator Alexis Victoria Yeb closing the four border points would negatively impact the provinces that rely heavily on binational trade.

Another Senator, Santiago Zorrilla, has suggested strengthening border controls to prevent the undocumented migration of Haitians.

While the opposition, represented by Fuerza del Pueblo, supports increased surveillance along the border to manage the situation. Senator Antonio Marte emphasized the need for measures targeting sectors that employ undocumented Haitian workers.

The current violence in Haiti, where militias and armed groups have taken over the streets of the capital, is of concern to the government and citizens in the neighboring country.

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In response, Dominican President Luis Abinader, earlier this year, has increased patrols along the border over concerns of a Haitian migrant influx.

He also announced plans to build a 108 mile-long wall.