Humanitarian Needs Increase at Dominican-Haitian Border
The Dominican Red Cross has reported a significant rise in humanitarian needs due to increased population movements from Haiti into the Dominican Republic, particularly at the border town of Dajabón. Operational data shows that the branch has recorded 15,697 admissions from July to September 2026, a 25.1 percent increase from 12,550 admissions during the same period in 2025. Notably, the number of children admitted surged from 628 to 3,229, representing a jump in their share from 5.0 percent to 20.6 percent.
The admissions figures, which may include repeat entries, indicate fluctuating movements. Admissions decreased from 7,265 in July to 3,597 in September. The Dominican Red Cross has provided various types of assistance but notes continuing needs for pre-hospital care, drinking water, food, hygiene supplies, and protection referrals.
Reported health issues among those admitted include dehydration, hypertension, pregnancy-related complications, and instances involving unaccompanied children. The humanitarian situation is compounded by language barriers and the challenge of maintaining family contact, hampering access to essential support services.
The Dajabón branch currently operates with a team of up to five volunteers whose schedules vary due to work commitments, limiting consistent service delivery. Despite these challenges, they continue to offer pre-hospital assistance, distribute food and water, and provide hygiene kits when supplies are available. Between July and September 2026, the branch distributed 3,409 hygiene kits.
After discussions and a visit by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) Regional Director in September, a proposal for additional support was submitted on October 12, 2026. The request seeks funding to bolster existing branch services and establish a Humanitarian Service Point, as well as conduct a multisectoral assessment in select locations across the Dominican Republic.
The assessment will aim to clarify the extent of unmet needs and existing services. It will inform a long-term humanitarian strategy, currently in the planning stages. The application for DREF support is still under review and is not indicative of current assistance already provided.
Despite the increased need for assistance, there has been a noted reduction in the presence of several humanitarian organizations in Dajabón, leading to concerns about the coverage and capacity for service referrals. The General Directorate of Migration manages the migrant interdiction center, while public health facilities are available for those in need of medical treatment.
The next steps include the continued assessment of service needs and the ongoing review of the DREF application to enhance operational capacity at the border.
