Troublesome Neighbors The relationship between the Dominican Republic and Haiti can be described as a time bomb that can explode at any given moment. The strained relations between these two states stem from long-standing historical, cultural and ethnic differences. Although both occupy the island of Hispaniola and share common characteristics, mutual antipathy is deeply rooted in the political and social identity of each state. The island of Hispaniola was split in two during the period of colonization by the French and Spanish, this diaspora has built a deep historical meaning that has influenced the way Haitians and Dominicans still live and see themselves today. Furthermore, this conflicting ideology has a strong influence on each state's foreign policy agenda. This Caribbean feud has led to negotiations and foreign relations remaining in limbo and, in many cases, causing current policies to roll back. Issues such as Haitian political and economic instability inevitably affect their neighbors, the Dominican Republic. Haiti has become a hindrance and impediment to further growth, as well as a security threat. With so much animosity occupying this relationship, the thought of cordial relations and conducting a foreign policy without social and racial ideals is nothing but a distant dream. The social constructivism of this dysfunctional relationship has become second nature to each government and population. Mutual demonization through historical events has led these two states to become enemies rather than friends, even in close proximity. Foreign policy between the two states has become impracticable, and a plane that will never reach its destination. Influen... half of the paper... will happen is very questionable. In addition to their difficult pasts, the Dominican Republic and Haiti experience two very different levels of development, which further complicates foreign policy. In the eyes of the Dominican Republic, Haiti is damaged goods, full of problems and with poor leadership, which is becoming an anchor for Dominican progress. With little to contribute and domestic instability, foreign relations have yet another obstacle and increasing resentment of the Dominican government, as Haiti presents itself as a security threat. To change the dynamics of this relationship, massive reforms and a rational mindset must be at hand, otherwise the foreign policy agenda will remain in a miserable state. But currently foreign policy between states has been characterized as impractical and as a plan that will never reach its destination.