Santo Domingo.- The Border, Economy, and Social Development organization (FEDES) has called for a coalition of the seven Dominican border provinces to address critical challenges such as poverty, lack of basic services, and insufficient infrastructure investment. Speaking at the “Sustainable, Economic, and Social Comprehensive Border Development” seminar on November 19-20 at the INESDYC of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, FEDES President Roberto Sánchez highlighted the severe inequalities and neglect faced by the region, urging a collaborative approach to promote autonomous development and combat ongoing crises like migration and social instability.
FEDES Executive Director Vargavila Riverón emphasized the importance of innovative strategies to retain local talent and investments while addressing poverty. He criticized the lack of targeted government policies, warning that continued neglect would lead to further emigration of Dominicans from border towns, creating a vacuum increasingly filled by Haitian immigrants.
The seminar gathered public officials, private sector leaders, and development experts to propose actionable projects for the provinces of Montecristi, Dajabón, Elías Piña, Santiago Rodríguez, Pedernales, Independencia, and Bahoruco. Distinguished speakers and attendees discussed solutions for fostering cooperation, enhancing infrastructure, and improving the quality of life for residents. The event was supported by various organizations and businesses, signaling a united effort to secure a more prosperous future for the border region.
