Duartian Institute raises sovereignty concerns over U.S. deportation agreement

Santo Domingo.- The Duartian Institute has raised objections to the memorandum of understanding signed between the Dominican Republic and the United States to temporarily receive third-country nationals deported from U.S. territory. The organization argues that the agreement could compromise national sovereignty and may conflict with the Dominican Republic’s immigration laws.

Institute President Wilson Gómez Ramírez said the measure represents an “excessively accommodating” decision by Dominican authorities. He contended that Dominican legislation permits the entry only of Dominican citizens and foreign nationals who have been properly visaed through the country’s consular system, and warned that accepting deportees from other countries could create constitutional and legal concerns.

Gómez Ramírez also criticized the timing of the agreement, noting that the country continues to face significant migration pressures related to the crisis in Haiti. He said it is contradictory to assume new migration responsibilities while Dominican authorities are working to control irregular migration. The civic leader further called for a national discussion about the use of Dominican military airports and the arrival of foreign aircraft as part of the operation.

The Duartian Institute urged President Luis Abinader to review the actions of officials involved in the agreement and ensure that decisions affecting migration policy are aligned with the country’s legal framework and national interests.