In a swift, sole-source move, the Dominican Republic’s Ministry of the Presidency has retained Washington consultancy DGA Group Government Relations for a 12-month advisory stint covering border security, migration control, counter-trafficking policy, and human-rights positioning.
Why It Matters
- Damage Control: International watchdogs have zeroed in on the mass removal of Haitian nationals—especially expectant and nursing mothers—casting a shadow over Santo Domingo’s human-rights record.
- White House Access: The contract mandates DGA Group to cultivate direct channels with President Donald Trump’s inner circle, a relationship officials believe will soften criticism and open doors for security cooperation.
- Trade Relief Goal: Negotiators want the firm to lobby for scrapping the 10 per cent U.S. duty on Dominican goods, freeing revenue for domestic security upgrades.
Contract Snapshot
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 year (renewable) |
| Selection Method | Direct award (no competitive tender) |
| Reporting Line | Ministry of the Presidency |
| Primary Deliverables | Policy briefs, U.S. congressional outreach, media strategy, tariff-repeal lobby plan |
Political Optics
Government spokespeople argue the rapid hire was “operationally imperative” given surging migration flows and looming trade talks. Opposition legislators, however, are demanding transparency on fee structure and quantifiable performance metrics.
Next Steps
DGA Group is expected to table its first situational assessment within 60 days, after which the Ministry will set performance benchmarks on deportation-related messaging, anti-trafficking coordination, and tariff renegotiation progress.
Reporting by Caribbean Business Review staff.
