I. Introduction: A Shrinking Civic Space
The Dominican Republic, despite its image as a vibrant Caribbean democracy, faces serious challenges regarding civil liberties. Restrictions on freedom of expression, assembly, and political participation have contributed to an atmosphere of repression and insecurity. As these liberties erode, many Dominicans increasingly view migration as their only path to dignity, safety, and justice abroad.

II. Restrictions on Freedom of Expression
Freedom of expression is curtailed through harassment of journalists, censorship of independent media, and intimidation of dissenting voices. Those who criticise government corruption or abuses often face lawsuits, smear campaigns, or direct threats, creating a climate of fear.

III. Press Freedom Under Siege
Journalists in the Dominican Republic face significant risks, particularly when covering sensitive topics such as political corruption or abuses by security forces. Media outlets face financial and political pressure, leading to self-censorship and undermining citizens’ access to reliable information.

IV. Suppression of Peaceful Assembly
Protests and demonstrations are often met with violent crackdowns by security forces. Peaceful demonstrators face arbitrary arrests, harassment, and surveillance, deterring citizens from mobilising to demand accountability and reform.

V. Surveillance and Intimidation
Activists and opposition figures report being monitored and harassed by state authorities. This surveillance fosters a sense of insecurity and discourages civic engagement, shrinking the space for democratic participation.

VI. Harassment of Opposition Parties
Opposition leaders face systemic harassment, legal manipulation, and exclusion from political processes. These practices weaken political pluralism and consolidate power among ruling elites, undermining democratic governance.

VII. Vulnerable Communities Affected
Marginalised groups, particularly Dominicans of Haitian descent, face additional restrictions on civil liberties. Their activism for equality often results in further persecution, compounding systemic discrimination and exclusion.

VIII. Gendered Dimensions of Repression
Women activists and journalists face gender-based harassment, including online abuse, threats, and sexual violence. These attacks seek to silence their voices and discourage women from participating in civic and political life.

IX. LGBT Communities and Civil Liberties
LGBT Dominicans face barriers to free expression and association, with advocacy groups targeted for harassment. This hostility contributes to broader patterns of repression and drives LGBT citizens to seek protection abroad.

X. Impunity and Weak Judicial Protections
Judicial institutions are compromised by corruption and political influence, leaving victims of repression without effective recourse. The lack of accountability fosters impunity and further erodes trust in governance.

XI. Migration as a Defence of Rights
For many Dominicans, migration becomes the only way to reclaim freedoms denied at home. Asylum seekers frequently cite persecution for activism, journalism, or participation in protests as reasons for leaving the country.

XII. Conclusion: Liberty Beyond Borders
The Dominican Republic’s restrictions on civil liberties undermine democratic freedoms and fuel migration. Until the state strengthens protections for free expression, peaceful assembly, and political participation, many Dominicans will continue to seek liberty abroad. Exile becomes not only a survival strategy but also a declaration of the importance of civil rights in the pursuit of dignity and justice.