The Dominican Republic is deporting tens of thousands of Haitians fleeing gang-fueled lawlessness, despite pleas from the United Nations to stop. President Luis Abinader is going further by building a border wall between the two countries that share the Caribbean island of Hispaniola. As voters head to the polls in a general election, the immigration crackdown, an anticorruption drive, and growth in tourism have made Abinader the clear front-runner. The country’s prosperous economy sets it apart from other Latin American countries where leaders are battling dismal approval ratings.
Abinader’s iron-fisted approach to migration makes the Dominican Republic an outlier in the region. Credible polls indicate that a majority of Dominicans approve of Abinader’s tenure, particularly his anti-corruption initiatives. He appointed a former Supreme Court judge as attorney general, leading investigations that ensnared high-ranking officials in the previous administration. Despite criticism of targeting opponents, new laws like asset forfeiture offer hope for lasting change. Abinader’s popularity is also boosted by his strong anti-corruption stance.
Exploiting anti-Haitian sentiment is not new in the Dominican Republic, with a history of discrimination. Birthright citizenship was excluded for Dominican-born children of Haitian migrants, leaving many without citizenship despite being born there. The current deportation policy towards Haitians has been seen as a public and international disgrace, particularly the treatment of pregnant Haitian women. Abinader’s policies have been divisive, with some accusing him of using anti-Haitian rhetoric to win votes, while others support his effort to protect the Dominican people.
The Dominican Republic’s economic growth, handled pandemic, and investor-friendly policies have boosted Abinader’s support. The handling of the pandemic, quick vaccine distribution, and rebound of the tourism industry have contributed to the country’s economic growth. While the economy has expanded at a rate higher than the Latin American average, enduring inequality remains a challenge. Abinader has expanded cash-transfer programs to support the poorest residents and continues to focus on economic growth and development.
Despite criticisms and divisions within the Dominican Republic, Abinader maintains strong support and is a front-runner in the upcoming election. His anti-corruption initiatives, economic policies, and strict stance on migration have resonated with many voters. The election will showcase the country’s economic growth and stability, contrasting with other Latin American countries facing political turmoil. Abinader’s tough stance on migration and cooperation with neighboring countries have led to both praise and criticism, with the outcome of the election poised to shape the future of the Dominican Republic.
