Dominican consular service issues in Antigua and Barbuda

Dominican residents in Antigua and Barbuda have reported a significant decline in consular, migratory, and protection services. Complainants noted that the support system has weakened, making it difficult for citizens to complete paperwork or communicate with authorities. Residents expressed concerns regarding a lack of engagement from Consul Julio César Mateo and reported difficulties contacting Ambassador Yolanda Victoria.

Following these reports, the Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MIREX) released a performance evaluation showing the consulate in Antigua and Barbuda received a score of zero. This score indicates a total lack of reporting regarding annual operational plans, monthly income, and the volume of issued documents. The evaluation specifies that the mission failed to submit required documentation, including reports on the transfer of collections to the Single Treasury Account and the issuance of passports, visas, and powers of attorney.

The absence of data has led to suggestions that the mission may be a ‘phantom consulate’ or ‘ghost consulate,’ where honorary models—often involving local businessmen or political associates providing office space—lack official MIREX personnel or digital platforms. This lack of activity is further highlighted by the absence of revenue reporting following the implementation of transparency measures requiring all consular income to be deposited into the Single Treasury Account, highlighting significant transparency challenges in the region.