- Calls for Greater Integration Between Spain and Latin America
Former President of the Dominican Republic, Leonel Fernández, warned yesterday about the risks facing democracies in Latin America and around the world, and called for stronger ties between Spain and the region, during an interview with journalist and writer Juan Luis Cebrián, published by The Objective. Fernández stated that democracy “must evolve toward an economic and social dimension,” while also criticizing the new isolationism of the United States and the lack of international response to the crisis in Haiti.
Fernández, who served as president three times (1996, 2004, and 2008) and is currently the leader of the Fuerza del Pueblo party, argued that the democratic model cannot be limited to electoral processes. “It must provide economic opportunities, reduce inequality, and ensure access to essential services like healthcare and education,” he said. In his view, democratic legitimacy also depends on the system’s ability to respond to social demands.
Regarding the regional situation, Fernández expressed concern over the institutional collapse in Haiti, worsened after the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse and the withdrawal of the UN peacekeeping mission. He asserted that the Dominican Republic cannot handle the migration pressure resulting from the Haitian crisis on its own, and called for a coordinated international intervention under the mandate of the United Nations.
In this context, he advocated for the implementation of a clear and regulated migration policy. He noted that Haitian workers hold key positions in sectors such as agriculture, but warned that their presence must be managed through supervised temporary contracts, avoiding irregularity and ensuring minimum rights.
Criticism of Trump
On the international stage, Fernández criticized the direction of the United States under Donald Trump’s leadership, describing him as a promoter of a “neo-isolationist expansionism” that breaks with the traditions of classical conservatism. “Today, multilateral institutions are being questioned, organizations like USAID are being withdrawn, and proposals like the annexation of territories are being made. It’s an imperial model without a universalist project,” he stated.
Regarding Europe, he noted that Spain has been regaining its influence in Latin America, after losing prominence due to the 2008 financial crisis and austerity policies. He praised the role of the Ibero-American summits held during his terms and encouraged Spain to exercise renewed leadership through culture, education, and scientific cooperation.
Fernández also spoke about the Global Foundation for Democracy and Development (Funglode), which he founded 25 years ago. He stated that the institution will expand its presence in Spain through academic partnerships with universities and research institutes.
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