Report identifies major gaps in Dominican-Haitian border migration management

Santo Domingo.- A report by the Dominican Republic’s National Migration Institute (INM) and the World Bank has identified significant weaknesses in migration management along the Dominican-Haitian border, citing fragmented institutional coordination, broad discretionary enforcement, inadequate deportation facilities, and overlapping military and civilian responsibilities that may undermine due process.

The study found that the border includes more than 31 crossing points, over 15 binational markets, and 16 informal crossings, creating a complex environment where legal and informal migration and trade coexist. It also noted that nearly 2,000 Haitian workers cross daily through Pedernales to work primarily in the construction and agricultural sectors, underscoring the strong economic ties between border communities.

Researchers also highlighted the inconsistent use of biometric technology, insufficient training among personnel involved in migration enforcement, and poor conditions at deportation transit centers, particularly for women and children. The report recommends adopting more coordinated, evidence-based migration policies, strengthening institutional collaboration, and increasing local community participation to improve border governance while safeguarding national security and due process.