June 14, 2025
On May 22, 2025, Haiti’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAE in French) issued a statement expressing its “deepest concerns” over “xenophobic acts” targeting Haitian nationals in the Dominican Republic, particularly pregnant and breastfeeding women. The government is calling for national and international mobilization to defend “the rights and dignity of our fellow citizens,” while emphasizing adherence to existing laws and international conventions.
According to the Ministry, instructions have been given to the Haitian Embassy in the Dominican Republic to strengthen protections for migrants, including organizing “voluntary repatriation caravans under dignified conditions.” Haitian diplomats have also been tasked with consistently advocating for Haitian rights and investigating reported violations.
The statement highlights the inhumane conditions faced by Haitian women, many of whom are expelled without regard for their health status. The Ministry reaffirmed the Haitian government’s commitment to dialogue while urging civil society and human rights organizations to join the fight for justice.
This position comes amid a wave of mass expulsions, with over 250,000 Haitians deported since 2024, including pregnant women and children. The Dominican government, under President Luis Abinader, justifies the actions as necessary for national security. However, NGOs continue to denounce the policy as discriminatory.
The MAE expressed support for protest actions, such as the sit-in organized by civil groups on May 23, 2025, to raise awareness about the ongoing crisis. “It is through unity and solidarity,” the ministry emphasized, “that we will succeed in defending our rights,” reaffirming Haiti’s commitment to protecting its citizens wherever they may be.
