In a landmark session at the National Assembly of the Dominican Republic, Senate President Ricardo de los Santos and Chamber of Deputies President Alfredo Pacheco introduced the Comprehensive Reform ‘Let Her Go’ (Déjala Ir). This pioneering legislative initiative aims to significantly reduce femicides and filicides by 2030 and eradicate them entirely by 2035. The reform, championed by Representative Kimberly Taveras and supported by over 70 legislators from both chambers, was meticulously crafted over nine months to establish a national agenda focused on safeguarding lives and fostering family peace. Unlike traditional punitive approaches, the reform emphasizes prevention, protection, and the reintegration of victims, signaling a transformative shift in public policy and institutional modernization. Key components of the reform include the criminalization of vicarious violence, the establishment of specialized courts, the integration of emotional education and social workers in schools, and the implementation of a National Care System. Additionally, the initiative advocates for the disarmament of aggressors, the use of technology for monitoring and early warnings, and the coordination of policies across rural and border regions. Hailed as the largest women-led movement in the history of the Dominican Congress, the reform has garnered unanimous support from legislators across all political parties. During the session, participants read a manifesto declaring femicides and filicides a national emergency, urging all sectors of society—from the State and academia to media and civil organizations—to unite in collective action.
Dominican Congress presents “Let Her Go” Reform to fight violence against women and children
