Dominican Republic, Haiti: Santo Domingo likely to maintain closure of land, air, and sea borders with neighboring country through at least mid-October /update 3

Event

The Dominican Republic will likely maintain the closure of its land, air, and sea borders with Haiti through at least mid-October. Dominican President Luis Abinader indicated in early October that the country's borders with Haiti would not open until Haitian authorities put a stop to the construction of a canal on the Haitian side of the countries' shared land border that would divert water from the Masacre River (Dajabon River), which runs along the border, to Haitian farms.

Cross-border transport and business operations will experience significant disruptions while the border closure remains in effect. Dominican officials will almost certainly maintain a heightened security presence along the border until the dispute is resolved. Protests denouncing the closure are possible on both sides of the border. Security forces will likely monitor any demonstrations that materialize and may attempt to forcibly disperse demonstrators. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Avoid any demonstrations that materialize. Plan for significant disruptions to cross-border transport, shipping, and other business; consider making alternative plans for passenger travel and freight shipment. Avoid concentrations of security forces if operating in the border region. Remain calm and cooperative if approached by security personnel. Heed authorities' instructions.