DR on Edge: River Crisis, Oil Shock, US Pact

Environment: sand extraction threatens the Masacre River ecosystem

At the border with Haiti, the Masacre River—a vital 55-kilometer water resource—is increasingly affected by intensive sand extraction activities on the Haitian side.

Since 2021, operations have expanded significantly, involving dozens of trucks and workers in near-continuous activity. Recent observations point to ongoing extraction in the La Sal area, Los Miches.

Experts warn of accelerated erosion, increased water turbidity, disruption of groundwater systems and a gradual loss of biodiversity. The lack of regulation, linked to Haiti’s ongoing political and security crisis, complicates intervention efforts, while the environmental consequences risk affecting both countries.

Politics: opposition challenges Abinader’s economic response

On the political front, major opposition parties—including the Dominican Liberation Party, the People’s Force and the Dominican Revolutionary Party—have rejected economic measures introduced by President Luis Abinader to mitigate the impact of rising oil prices linked to the conflict in Iran.

Opposition leaders are calling for structural reforms, including reduced public spending, cuts to the state wage bill and improved resource management. They also highlight perceived weaknesses such as reliance on subsidies, the absence of an integrated transport policy, insufficient energy planning and vulnerabilities in the agricultural sector.

The government, however, continues to defend its strategy centered on public investment and support for productive sectors.

Security: Dominican Republic deepens cooperation with the United States

At the same time, the Dominican Republic has strengthened its international security partnerships. On March 23, 2026, an agreement was signed with the United States to enhance border security and combat organized crime.

The partnership includes the development of biometric capabilities aimed at facilitating legal travel while improving the identification of criminal networks.

This initiative follows regional coordination efforts such as the Escudo de las Américas summit and builds on joint operations that have led to major drug seizures. Authorities from both countries reaffirmed their commitment to addressing transnational threats through closer cooperation.

Soraya Ades.