Human rights organizations have raised concerns over the growing incidence of human trafficking along the Dominican-Haitian border, warning that migrant women, children, refugees, and stateless people are facing increasing risks due to restrictive migration policies and ongoing instability in Haiti.
The concerns were highlighted during the 62nd Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC62), where the UN Special Rapporteur on trafficking in persons presented a report examining the rights of migrant children, refugees, asylum seekers, and stateless children who are victims of trafficking or at risk of exploitation.
Representatives from regional human rights organizations stated that racial discrimination, stricter border controls, arbitrary detentions, deportations without due process, family separation, and limited access to legal protection have contributed to the rise in trafficking across the border. They also emphasized that Haiti’s long-standing political and economic challenges, rooted in the legacy of colonialism and slavery, continue to drive forced migration and increase vulnerability to traffickers.
The organizations called on governments to strengthen anti-trafficking laws, improve protection for victims, establish witness protection mechanisms, and expand access to legal documentation and safe, regular migration pathways. They also urged policymakers to address the structural causes of trafficking, including poverty, discrimination, lack of education, unemployment, and inadequate legal identity systems.
In addition, the groups requested greater technical support for community organizations working on the front lines to prevent trafficking and assist vulnerable populations. They stressed that stronger international cooperation should prioritize protecting migrants and refugees while ensuring that border management respects human rights rather than criminalizing people seeking safety and opportunity.
