Dominican Republic, Haiti: Border crisis between the Dominican Republic's border with Haiti likely to persist through at least mid-December /update 6

The border crisis between the Dominican Republic and Haiti will likely last through at least mid-December. As of Nov. 30, Dominican authorities maintained a partially open border with Haiti under strict conditions, including military security and biometric checks, and only allowing essential goods trading, such as food and medicine. Additionally, the government allowed for limited flights between the two countries. However, Haitian authorities have refused to even partially open their side of the border, demanding that the Dominican government end all restrictions.

Merchants from both sides of the border have attempted to negotiate terms to end the border crisis for commercial activity, with government officials facilitating discussion. However, tensions further increased on Nov. 29 when Haitian merchants tried to forcibly break through the border to Dajabon, which security forces quickly secured promptly. The border closure initially occurred in mid-September as part of a dispute between the two countries over constructing a canal on the Haitian side, which would divert water to Haitian farms from the Dajabon River (Rio Masacre). Dominican authorities have indicated that the measures will remain in place until construction of the canal ceases.

Cross-border transport and business operations will likely continue to 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.