UNDP Report praises Dominican Republic for advances in democracy and human development

Santo Domingo.- The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) praised the Dominican Republic for its advances in democracy, political freedoms, and human development, describing the country as a notable example of democratic strengthening in a region facing growing pressures on democratic institutions. During the presentation of the 2026 Regional Human Development Report, UNDP Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean, Michelle Muschett highlighted the country’s progress in consolidating electoral democracy and expanding political freedoms.

Muschett also underscored the Dominican Republic’s significant achievements in reducing poverty and inequality over the past two decades, noting that these advances reflect important improvements in human development and social well-being. The report examines key challenges confronting democracies across Latin America and the Caribbean, including governance issues, inequality, political polarization, and the ability of governments to meet citizens’ expectations.

Speaking at the event led by Luis Abinader and attended by Foreign Minister Roberto Álvarez, Muschett stressed that stronger democracies depend on effective institutions capable of delivering tangible benefits to citizens. Álvarez echoed this message, emphasizing the need to continuously protect and renew democracy while addressing challenges such as disinformation, organized crime, migration pressures, technological change, and the environmental crisis. He reaffirmed the Dominican Republic’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring that political progress translates into improved quality of life for all citizens.