Prague, Czech Republic.- President Luis Abinader highlighted the Dominican Republic’s progress in strengthening its democratic institutions, emphasizing the peaceful alternation of power, electoral transparency and institutional independence during his address Tuesday at the 30th Annual Forum 2000 Conference in Prague.
Abinader pointed to the independence of the Attorney General’s Office and Central Bank, as well as record foreign direct investment despite a regional slowdown. He also cited the 2024 general elections as an example of the country’s institutional stability.
The president warned that one of Latin America’s major democratic challenges is leaders seeking to remain in power by changing constitutions. He said his administration established a precedent by supporting constitutional reforms that prevent him from extending his presidency, despite having broad congressional support.
Abinader reiterated that he will leave office in August 2028 and said strong democratic institutions must be preserved for future generations. He contrasted the Dominican Republic’s progress with the institutional challenges facing countries such as Nicaragua and Cuba, while highlighting Uruguay and Chile as examples of strong democratic systems.
“The best way to strengthen democracy is to improve people’s lives,” Abinader said, arguing that effective government requires decisions as well as dialogue, transparency and a willingness to accept criticism. He called for democracy to be strengthened through firmness, integrity and institutional renewal to address future challenges.
Following his participation in the conference, Abinader met with Forum 2000 Executive Director Jakub Klepal.