X-ray of electoral abstention: The vote from abroad reached a historic figure in 2024
The May 2024 electoral process in the Dominican Republic left significant data on the behavior of the electorate, highlighting a marked difference between local participation and that of Dominicans residing abroad. According to a recent report prepared by the Center for Electoral Promotion and Assistance (CAPEL) for the Central Electoral Board, abstention among Dominicans outside the country reached a worrying 81%.
This segment, which makes up 10.6% of the electoral roll with more than 864,000 eligible citizens, showed a turnout of just 19%. In comparison, within the national territory, abstention stood at 41.4%, reflecting a different dynamic than that observed in the diaspora.
Factors influencing the phenomenon
The study, titled “Study on electoral abstention in the Dominican Republic: national and overseas voting”, points out a disconnection between the diaspora’s strong economic bond and their democratic exercise. Although 70.2% of these citizens send remittances regularly, such commitment does not translate into massive turnout at the polls.
Among the identified barriers that hinder the participation of Dominicans abroad, the following stand out:
- Logistical difficulties and long distances to polling stations.
- Conflicts with work schedules and shifts in countries of residence.
- Barriers inherent to migratory status.
- Lack of direct connection with the proposals presented by political parties.
National context and political perception
At the local level, the 45.6% general abstention rate exceeded the country’s historical averages, which traditionally ranged between 25% and 40%. The analysis highlights that this phenomenon does not depend exclusively on variables such as age or gender, but rather presents geographical nuances: large cities like the National District and Santiago recorded higher levels of disinterest, while rural and border areas maintained more active participation.
Although 74% of citizens value democracy as the ideal system, there is a marked disenchantment with the political class and party organizations, with 47% of those consulted perceiving the electoral offer as more of the same.
Proposals to strengthen the system
To reverse this trend, research suggests a series of strategic actions that include the modernization of voting mechanisms, especially abroad, and an improvement in the accessibility of polling stations. However, experts conclude that the main challenge transcends the administrative.
The report emphasizes that the key to reducing abstention lies in regaining citizen trust, demonstrating that voting is a tool capable of generating real and tangible changes in public administration.
