Dominican Republic Roundup: Owner of nightclub that killed many speaks, deportations of Haitians, investments in startups
UN Issues Warning Over Deportations of Haitians
The UN has expressed deep concern over increasing deportations of vulnerable Haitians, particularly pregnant women and newborns, from the Dominican Republic. As reported by the IOM, on a single day, over 400 deportees, including mothers and infants, were sent back to Haiti, where they face dire living conditions. The UN emphasises the urgent need for humanitarian support upon arrival, highlighting the disruptive impact of escalating violence and limited resources in Haiti.
Dominican President Defends Immigration Policies Amid Criticism
Dominican President Luis Abinader has rebuffed allegations of racist policies regarding immigration after Amnesty International demanded an end to mass deportations of Haitians. As mentioned in Abinader's statements and reported by AA, he encouraged the rights organisation to direct its focus on the humanitarian crisis in Haiti instead. The President justified the controversial health protocols and border security measures as necessary to protect Dominican interests amid the ongoing migration crisis.
Nightclub Owner Acknowledges Structural Issues Before Tragic Collapse
Antonio Espaillat, co-owner of a nightclub in Santo Domingo, admitted that plaster tiles had frequently fallen from the venue's ceiling due to persistent water damage, long before a catastrophic roof collapse killed over 200 people. He revealed that the establishment had never received a structural review, despite ongoing issues. Families of victims are now pursuing legal action for alleged negligence. CP24 reports that the Dominican government has pledged to investigate the disaster.
Global Innovator Jonathan J to Boost Dominican Startups at INDOTEL 4.0 Congress
Renowned innovator Jonathan J. Mentor will serve as a judge and startup trainer for INDOTEL’s inaugural I+D Lab and International Congress 4.0, held May 6–7 at Hotel Jaragua, Santo Domingo. According to Dominican Today, Mentor joins top Dominican tech leaders to identify and accelerate standout startups, providing them with expert training, mentorship, and national recognition. Through the I+D Lab, INDOTEL aims to grow the digital economy, drive high-quality tech ventures, and position the Dominican Republic as a regional innovation leader.
Dominican Republic's Recent Crackdown on Undocumented Migrants in Hospitals
In a targeted operation, the Dominican Republic deported over 130 undocumented Haitian women and children from hospitals as part of an immigration crackdown initiated by President Abinader. Under new regulations, hospitals are required to verify patients' legal documentation before treatment, raising concerns from medical professionals who argue that such measures deter vulnerable migrants from seeking necessary healthcare, Channel 5 Belize reports.
