Voters in the Dominican Republic are gearing up for general elections set to take place on Sunday. The elections are expected to further solidify the government's efforts to address issues along its border with Haiti, particularly concerning the influx of Haitian migrants escaping violence in their home country.
President Luis Abinader is leading the presidential race and is seeking reelection as one of the most popular leaders in the Americas. If he secures over 50% of the vote, he will secure another term without the need for a second round of voting. Competing against him are President Leonel Fernández and mayor Abel Martínez. In addition to the presidential race, Dominicans will also cast their votes in legislative elections.
Abinader's focus on anti-corruption measures and economic growth has resonated with many of the 8 million voters in the Caribbean nation. However, a significant portion of his support stems from the government's firm stance on Haitian migrants and the border shared with Haiti.
The Dominican Republic has historically maintained strict policies towards Haitian migrants, but these measures have intensified following the turmoil in Haiti after the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021. In response to the crisis in Haiti, the Dominican government has constructed a border wall reminiscent of those seen in the United States and has called for international intervention in Haiti.
Despite the government's popularity among voters for its tough stance on migration, human rights organizations have strongly criticized the policies. The mass deportations of 175,000 Haitians last year and the absence of refugee camps for those fleeing violence have been condemned as violations of international law and human rights.
Amnesty International's Americas director, Ana Piquer, has denounced the collective expulsions as endangering the lives and rights of Haitian migrants, calling for an end to forced returns to Haiti.
