In a surprising move, the Dominican Republic launched a campaign that has resulted in over 130 arrests of Haitian women and children. Most of those detained were pregnant or had just given birth, causing growing concern about the implications for migrant health and safety. This initiative started in Santo Domingo's hospitals as the government aims to deport around 10,000 undocumented migrants each week.
Critics argue this approach demonstrates a lack of compassion for those fleeing violence and hardship. Notably, a Haitian woman expressed worries about the uncertainty that pregnant women may face in accessing medical care, stating that fears of detention could prevent them from seeking help.
While the Dominican immigration department claims that the detained women received "dignified treatment," including medical care, many speculate about the future for these mothers if sent back to Haiti. In recent months, the Dominican Republic has already repatriated over 80,000 Haitians, citing concerns over the increasing number of undocumented crossings as they escape dire conditions in their home country.
The Abinader administration continues to emphasize the need for international support to stabilize Haiti, challenging the effectiveness of ongoing efforts to manage the surge of migrants.
Critics argue this approach demonstrates a lack of compassion for those fleeing violence and hardship. Notably, a Haitian woman expressed worries about the uncertainty that pregnant women may face in accessing medical care, stating that fears of detention could prevent them from seeking help.
While the Dominican immigration department claims that the detained women received "dignified treatment," including medical care, many speculate about the future for these mothers if sent back to Haiti. In recent months, the Dominican Republic has already repatriated over 80,000 Haitians, citing concerns over the increasing number of undocumented crossings as they escape dire conditions in their home country.
The Abinader administration continues to emphasize the need for international support to stabilize Haiti, challenging the effectiveness of ongoing efforts to manage the surge of migrants.
