In 2024, 479,908 Haitians returned to Haiti, including 272,713 due to deportations and 167,069 through repatriations. The peak month for these returns was October, aligning with the government’s goal to expel 10,000 Haitians weekly. New systems for controlling migration and improving conditions in transition centers were also developed throughout the year.
The General Directorate of Migration (DGM) has published its 2024 report, indicating that a total of 479,908 Haitians returned to Haiti during the year. This figure includes 272,713 deportations, 167,069 repatriations—of which 105,644 were voluntary returnees—and 207,195 individuals who opted to return voluntarily. Additionally, 106 foreigners, primarily from the United States and Cuba, were expelled from the Dominican Republic.
The month of October 2024 emerged as particularly significant, recording the highest number of expulsions and repatriations, totaling 40,715 Haitians. This was in line with the government’s target, established on October 2, 2024, to expel 10,000 Haitians in irregular migratory situations each week. However, subsequent months saw a decline in these numbers, with November and December reporting 28,703 and 25,700 returns, respectively.
In response to the increasing migration issue, the DGM has implemented the second phase of its “Intelligent System for the Automation of Interdiction Trucks,” which incorporates geolocation devices and enhanced internal surveillance in detention facilities. Furthermore, transition centers in key areas have been renovated and newly established to ensure humane conditions for temporarily housed immigrants, affirming the commitment to respect their human rights.
Throughout 2024, a comprehensive 3,316 migration control operations were executed nationwide, in collaboration with the Dominican Army, National Police, and other institutions, aiming to manage foreign nationals in the country effectively.
In summary, the DGM’s 2024 report illustrates a significant return of Haitians to their homeland, driven by a combination of deportations, repatriations, and voluntary returns. The Dominican Republic heightened efforts to manage illegal immigration, particularly with substantial operations in October, signaling a proactive approach toward migration control in the region. The focus on improving detention facilities further underscores a commitment to humane treatment of returning migrants.
Original Source: www.haitilibre.com
