THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC Context and existing response A ruling of the Dominican Constitutional Court in September 2013 stripped Dominican nationality from tens of thousands of people of Haitian descent previously considered to be Dominican nationals, thus rendering them stateless. UNHCR, together with the international community, strongly advocated that these people have their nationality restored to them. Subsequently, in May 2014, a law establishing separate special procedures for individuals who had previously been registered in the Dominican Civil Registry (Group A) and those whose births had never been registered (Group B) was passed. Under the terms of the law, people within Group A were to have their Dominican nationality re-confirmed after an analysis and regularization of their birth registration by the authorities. UNHCR and its partners provide legal assistance to people within Group A to have their status verified and acquire nationality documentation, and have assisted people in Group B to register and obtain legal status as migrants. As only a relatively small number of people whose profile matches the criteria for Group B managed to register within the deadline given by the Government, UNHCR and its partners are continuing with identification and registration activities, with the aim of advocating for solutions for this group. Resources would ensure momentum to resolve the situation of all those within Group A and those registered within Group B is used to best advantage, and so that efforts can be stepped up to address the situation of those for whom there is currently no legal solution available. Strategy and partnerships UNHCR’s strategy focuses on continued identification and registration of people of concern, advocacy for resolution of situations where people’s nationality has been called into question, as well as provision of legal assistance to people in Groups A and B. The Office will also seek to progressively engage in protection interventions to improve the enjoyment of basic rights, access to basic services, and livelihood opportunities, through an inter-agency approach. UNHCR will build on established relationships with the various government authorities, and will continue participating in the thematic, inter-agency working group in collaboration with OHCHR, UNDP, UNICEF, UNFPA, OCHA and IOM. Vision for 2019     Tens of thousands of individuals have obtained proof of their nationality. Tens of thousands of individuals with entitlement to Dominican nationality registered and have obtained proof of birth in the country. Thousands of individuals have submitted applications for nationality. Individuals with civil documents have enhanced access to basic services and livelihood opportunities. 13