Dominican Republic Hires US Firm to Tackle Haitian Crisis

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic – The Dominican Republic has contracted the U.S.-based consulting firm DGA Group Government Relations under a special arrangement to provide advisory services on security, immigration, drug and human trafficking, and human rights. 

Dominican Republic/ Haiti borderThe one-year contract, awarded without competition, is managed by the Ministry of the Presidency.

The firm’s proposal centers on improving the Dominican Republic’s international image, particularly in relation to the Haitian migration crisis, and aims to strengthen ties with the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump.

The deal comes amid mounting international criticism over the Dominican Republic’s deportation practices, especially concerning Haitian women who are pregnant or nursing.

 It also coincides with efforts by Dominican authorities to negotiate the removal of a 10% U.S. tariff on Dominican exports.