The Naturalization Bill Is a Step Forward

19 May 2014--The Dominican@s por Derecho Platform, of which OBMICA is a member, wishes to express its position on the Naturalization Bill that the Executive branch submitted to Congress on May 15 and that the Chamber of Deputies has already approved in two consecutive readings.

We understand that the bill presented by President Danilo Medina is progress, a step forward in the search for a solution to the unjust situation experienced by thousands of Dominicans whose identity documents and nationality were taken away from them.

This is a measure that confirms the broad effort of dialogue and political consensus led by President Danilo Medina, as well as the incorporation, contribution, and solidarity of an important representation of intellectuals, artists, journalists, and social activists from across the country.

This bill also means the materialization of a growing demand from Dominican society, which according to the recent Penn, Schoen & Berland poll solidly supports recognizing the nationality of those born on this land under the protection of the Constitution and laws that covered them. The animosities stirred up by groups dedicated to constructing hatred have been replaced by the majority desire to recognize the acquired rights of an important part of Dominican society.

Important questions remain to be answered and major challenges lie ahead to guarantee the full restoration of the rights of the most violated groups in our country. Let us remember that children cannot pay for the mistakes and omissions of their parents, or for the obstacles imposed by State institutions. For this reason, we invite the country's different political and social forces to continue supporting the effort undertaken by the Executive branch: only with their participation will it be possible to achieve more inclusive policies that guarantee the full exercise of rights.

Finally, we inform public opinion that we will remain vigilant to ensure that the law is effectively implemented, guarantees the restoration of rights, and contributes to the firm inclusion of the affected persons; their participation is essential if our country is to move toward a more promising future.

Dominicanos por Derecho is a platform that brings together civil society organizations promoting the recognition, restitution, and full enjoyment of the acquired nationality rights of persons born in the country before the promulgation of the 2010 Constitution.

Click here to learn more about OBMICA's work in defense of the right to nationality.