Dominican Republic's new penal code garners strong public approval

The Dominican Republic's new penal code enjoys widespread public approval, with a recent national survey indicating that 72.2% of citizens view the introduced changes positively. Only 24.1% expressed negative opinions, while a significant 75.6% believe an updated penal code is crucial for the country.

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The 72.2% of Dominicans consider the introduced changes positive, compared to 24.1% who value them negatively.

The survey, conducted between August 8-11, 2026, with 1,200 national interviews, revealed strong public backing for specific measures. Recognizing femicide and violence against women as crimes garnered 85.2% support. Similarly, punishing contract killings and the recruitment of minors for criminal activities received 82.6% approval. Increased penalties for corruption and embezzlement were deemed very important by 82.2% of respondents, with 78.1% supporting tougher sanctions for murder.

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75.6% consider it very important that the country has an updated Penal Code.

Public opinion also favors penal responses to technology-driven crimes. Crimes committed online, such as harassment and fraud, were deemed very important to recognize as offenses by 73.8% of those surveyed. Punishing the unauthorized dissemination of private photographs or videos also received strong backing, with 75.4% considering it highly important.

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85.2% consider it very important to recognize femicide and violence against women as a crime.

These results highlight a clear public demand for a more severe penal response to violent crimes, corruption, and emerging criminal modalities. The population appears to be seeking greater protection and more decisive consequences in these areas, reflecting a desire for a legal framework that effectively addresses contemporary societal concerns.

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82.6% give the same importance to the punishment of contract killings and the recruitment of minors for criminal activities.