Dominican Republic loses RD$15.6 million to military training dropouts

The Dominican Republic government has lost more than RD$15.6 million due to conscripts abandoning their military training. This loss stems from resources already invested in recruits who fail to complete the approximately six-month training period.

Between 2024 and 2026, at least 211 individuals who had successfully entered the Army and the Air Force did not complete the process. The financial impact includes expenditures on food, uniforms, boots, sports clothing, and various equipment necessary for their formation.

In the Army, specific provisions such as tactical backpacks, canteens, mattresses, pillows, and blankets are also provided. The loss highlights a distinction between applicants rejected during the selection process and those who are admitted but subsequently leave after the state has begun investing in their training and maintenance.