Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not represent the views of Duravision Inc, Dominica News Online, or any of its subsidiary brands.
The United States already possesses one of the most robust and sophisticated security systems in the world. Applying pressure on a small nation like Dominica to help secure U.S. borders is not only unreasonable, but it also borders on mockery.
President Trump argues that individuals holding Citizenship by Investment (CBI) passports pose a threat to U.S. national security. However, the reality is simple: if a person has no criminal record anywhere in the world, none can be uncovered during the vetting or due diligence process. Background checks can only identify what has been officially recorded.
Another claim is that individuals previously denied U.S. visas reapply using a Dominica CBI passport, sometimes after legally changing their names. If this is indeed a concern, the responsibility lies with the United States to address its own
data-sharing limitations.
If the names of individuals denied U.S. visas were made available, whether through the U.S. State Department or to vetted international due diligence firms, those names could be flagged during CBI screening. At present, no vetting agency or due diligence firm has access to U.S. visa denial databases. As a result, identifying such individuals is impossible.
This security gap is not caused by Dominica or other small nations. It is a structural issue within U.S. information-sharing policies.
With today’s advanced technology, highly sophisticated digital systems, and electronic monitoring capabilities, it is entirely feasible for the United States to maintain and manage a secure database of individuals it considers national security risks—including criminals, fraudsters, and suspected terrorists.
Rather than placing undue pressure on small countries and punishing innocent applicants for the actions of a few, the United States should invest in comprehensive electronic data systems and improve international information-sharing mechanisms.
National security is a shared responsibility, but accountability must begin at home.