Latin American nations intensify border security against organized crime

Governments across Latin America and Europe are intensifying border security measures to combat organized crime, drug trafficking, and human smuggling. This shift treats borders as critical national security assets rather than simple migration checkpoints.

In the Dominican Republic, the government has implemented a strategy to manage the 390-kilometer border with Haiti, a country facing severe institutional instability and gang influence. Under President Luis Abinader, the administration has utilized military presence, migration controls, and an intelligent perimeter fence equipped with electronic surveillance and biometric systems.

Authorities report that these measures have led to an approximately 85% decrease in illicit activities in intervened areas. Between January and August 2026, the Dominican Republic deported 265,412 irregular migrants, the vast majority of whom were sent to Haiti.