In September 2024, migration through the Darien Gap increased significantly, predominantly led by Venezuelans following a controversial presidential election in their country. Despite an overall decline in migration numbers this year, Venezuelans represented over 80% of the 25,111 migrants who crossed in September. Humanitarian support has diminished, compounding the challenges faced by migrants, particularly with recent aid suspensions affecting essential services.
In September 2024, a notable surge in migration through the Darien Gap—a treacherous jungle route between Colombia and Panama—was reported, primarily driven by Venezuelan nationals following a contentious presidential election in Venezuela. Data from the Panamanian government indicate that while overall migration across the Darien Gap declined by 36% compared to the same period in 2023, there was a significant spike with 25,111 migrants crossing in September alone, which marks an increase of 51% from August, with over 80% of these individuals being Venezuelan. The human rights organization Refugees International reported that the crackdown following the July 28 elections in Venezuela has heightened migration pressures. In 2023, more than half a million migrants traversed the Darien Gap, with Venezuelans comprising over 65% of this figure. Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino, who assumed office on July 1, indicated intentions to mitigate migration by closing several entry points and initiating a repatriation program with U.S. support. However, this program has not extended to Venezuelan migrants due to strained diplomatic relations with Caracas. As humanitarian aid resources face limitations in Panama, the prospects for migrants have become increasingly dire, particularly for non-Venezuelans who face possible deportation. The suspension of aid organizations, like Doctors Without Borders (MSF), exacerbated these challenges, although MSF has recently resumed operations after a temporary hiatus. From January 2023 to February 2024, MSF provided medical care to over 72,700 migrants. Migrants now confront not only the perilous journey but also a lack of essential services upon their arrival in Panama. This evolving situation highlights the urgent need for coordinated international responses to address the humanitarian crises emerging from political instability in the region.
The Darien Gap is a notorious and perilous corridor for migrants seeking passage from South America to North America, particularly to the United States. In recent years, a growing number of Venezuelans have undertaken this journey amid severe political turmoil and economic instability within Venezuela. The political landscape, including the controversial presidential elections, has contributed to escalating immigration from Venezuela. The Panamanian government has struggled to manage the influx while also dealing with humanitarian challenges, including the suspension of aid services critical to supporting incoming migrants.
The surge in migration through the Darien Gap, particularly by Venezuelans, underscores the broader humanitarian crisis fueled by political instability in Venezuela. With Panamanian authorities facing difficulties in providing adequate support and aid for migrants, the challenges continue to mount. The situation calls for an urgent international response to ensure the welfare and safety of individuals pursuing precarious migration routes in search of stability and security.
Original Source: apnews.com
