A record-breaking 520,000 migrants successfully navigated the perilous Darien Gap – the dense jungle border between Colombia and Panama – in 2023.
Doubling Dangers
This figure more than doubled the previous year’s count, presenting a formidable challenge for authorities in the region.
Government statistics indicate that the majority of migrants embarking on this hazardous journey that marks the beginning of the trek from South America to the US hail from Venezuela, Ecuador, Haiti, and China, as disclosed by Panama’s migration agency.
One-Fourth Of The Migrants Were Minors
Samira Gozaine, who heads the migration agency, highlighted the gravity of the situation, noting that approximately one-fourth of the migrants undertaking the journey were minors.
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National Security Alert
Speaking at a government event, she emphasized the severity of the issue, labeling it a “national security problem” and expressing the lack of a quick solution to address the complex dynamics at play.
Cortizo’s Term Witnesses Surge In Migrant Numbers
The surge in migrants transiting the Darien Gap has been particularly pronounced since the inauguration of Panamanian President Laurentino Cortizo in 2019.
International Assistance Sought
The alarming increase prompted local authorities to seek international assistance in managing the growing humanitarian and security challenges associated with the influx.
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Venezuelan Exodus
A significant contributing factor to this surge is the escalating exodus of Venezuelans fleeing the prolonged economic and social collapse of their once-prosperous oil-rich nation.
Over Seven Million Venezuelans Fleeing Dire Conditions
Over the past few years, more than seven million Venezuelans have sought refuge in other countries, according to United Nations figures. The dire circumstances and deteriorating conditions in Venezuela have compelled individuals to undertake the perilous journey northward in search of safety and opportunities.
Violence, Trafficking, And Disease Haunt Darien Gap Crossers
The treacherous passage through the Darien Gap poses substantial risks to migrants, exposing them to violence, sexual abuse, human trafficking, and disease.
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African Migrants Explore Alternatives
In response to these dangers, reports emerged in September revealing a strategic shift among African migrants heading to the United States. Some are opting to fly to Nicaragua, effectively bypassing the hazardous Darien Gap route and potentially opening new channels for migration.
Global Call To Action
The multifaceted challenges posed by the unprecedented number of migrants crossing the Darien Gap necessitate a comprehensive and coordinated response. Local authorities, grappling with the magnitude of the situation, are actively seeking international support to address the humanitarian crisis and bolster security measures along this critical migration route.
Pressing Concerns
As the global community grapples with the complexities of mass migration, finding sustainable solutions to safeguard the well-being of those embarking on these perilous journeys remains a pressing concern for governments and humanitarian organizations alike.
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