December 23, 2024
In what its ambassador in Haiti described as an act of “unwavering solidarity,” France has announced a €2 million contribution to the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to support Haitian migrants who have been deported. This decision comes amidst an unprecedented surge in deportations of Haitian migrants from the Dominican Republic. Since October 2023, nearly 60,000 individuals have been sent back to Haiti, averaging 5,000 deportations per week. This represents a 40% increase compared to the previous quarter, overwhelming reception facilities and underscoring the need for international intervention.
France’s contribution, part of its broader increased support for Haiti in 2024, will enable the IOM to continue its operations at border crossings such as Ouanaminthe and Belladère. French Ambassador Antoine Michon stated, “This contribution reflects our shared commitment to addressing urgent needs while paving the way for sustainable solutions.” This aid is in addition to the €16 million France has allocated to Haiti this year for food and emergency assistance programs.
The IOM has already provided over 550 dignity kits, conducted medical consultations, and offered psychosocial support to deported migrants, many of whom are women traveling alone or children separated from their families. Specific measures, such as transportation assistance, have allowed 7,000 migrants to reach safe locations or reunite with their families. According to the IOM, “France’s contribution is essential to maintaining and expanding this critical support.”
The plight of deported migrants reflects a broader multidimensional crisis in Haiti, characterized by natural disasters and escalating violence from armed gangs. In this context, displaced and deported populations are left without resources and face heightened needs. “Every day, we witness the devastating impact of this crisis,” said Grégoire Goodstein, head of the IOM in Haiti.