Funglode presents alarming report on femicides in the Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo.- The Global Foundation for Democracy and Development (Funglode), through its Dominican Political Observatory (OPD) led by Nathanael Concepción, presented the study “Femicides in the Dominican Republic: X-ray of Femicidal Violence 2016–2024”, which analyzes nearly a decade of data and patterns surrounding gender-based killings in the country. The event took place at the Funglode Auditorium, with the participation of former President and Funglode President Dr. Leonel Fernández.

Dr. Fernández emphasized the need for rigorous research to guide effective public policies, calling the report “an urgent call to action and collective responsibility of the State and society” to protect Dominican women. Researcher Flor Esmirna Batista Polo, coordinator of OPD’s Legislative Power Unit, revealed that 706 femicides were recorded between 2016 and 2024, with victims ranging from infants to elderly women. In 2024 alone, 73 cases were reported—89% classified as intimate partner femicides, leaving 77 children orphaned. The study shows that 53% of the murders were committed with bladed weapons and 37% with firearms, while 18 cases ended in femicide-suicides, a trend on the rise. Batista Polo noted that the persistence of these figures demonstrates that current policies have not achieved structural change.

A subsequent panel discussion titled “Where Are We and Where Are We Going?” brought together representatives from government, academia, and civil society, including Rosalba Ramos, Juliana O’Neal, Ana Iris Linares, Susi Aquino Grauteraux, and Patricia Liranzo. The panelists agreed on the need to strengthen institutional coordination, improve prevention strategies, and promote education based on equality and respect. Proposals included the creation of a georeferenced risk prediction system, early warning protocols, and continuous training for justice and security personnel.

The event concluded with a call for stronger national efforts to prevent, address, and penalize gender violence, while urging citizens to use existing helplines and support services such as the Ministry of Women (212), 911 Emergencies, and Life Line (809-200-1202).