In September 2024, migration through the Darien Gap surged, predominantly led by Venezuelans following their country’s controversial presidential election. The Panamanian government reported over 25,000 crossings that month, despite the overall year-to-date figures showing a decline. Humanitarian support for migrants has decreased, complicating the situation amidst strained diplomatic relations between Panama and Venezuela.
Migration through the Darien Gap, a challenging jungle corridor between Colombia and Panama, experienced a significant increase in September 2024, primarily driven by Venezuelans following the recent presidential election in their country. According to data from the Panamanian government, migrants are facing diminishing humanitarian assistance along their route, exacerbating their plight. The surge in crossings is a result of heightened immigration following retaliatory measures against Venezuelans after the contentious presidential elections on July 28, 2024. Refugees International has reported that the crackdown prompted a significant influx, particularly with more than 65% of the record 500,000 migrants who traversed the Darien in 2023 being Venezuelans. Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino, who assumed office on July 1, 2024, committed to reducing migration by shutting down several entries and establishing a repatriation effort, with support from the United States. The U.S. has initiated additional flights to various countries, including Colombia and Ecuador, to facilitate deportation for migrants found inadmissible; however, this initiative does not extend to Venezuelans due to diplomatic strains following the refusal to acknowledge Nicolás Maduro’s electoral victory, leading to suspended flights between the two nations. As of October 7, the total count of migrants who have crossed the Darien in 2024 stood at 277,939, marking a 36% decline from the previous year’s figures during the same timeframe. Nonetheless, there was a notable rise in September, with 25,111 migrants recorded, representing a 51% increase from August, and over 80% of these individuals were Venezuelan. Migrants from various nations, including Colombia, Ecuador, Bangladesh, and China, also featured in this demographic. The report from Refugees International emphasized that while Panamanian policies might have temporarily curbed migration, they have not provided a long-term solution. Furthermore, upon exiting the Darien, migrants face diminished humanitarian support, particularly for non-Venezuelans who risk deportation. This decline in assistance is partly attributed to the suspension of Doctors Without Borders (MSF) operations following a lapsed agreement with the Panamanian authorities. In response to previous accusations regarding insufficient measures against a surge in sexual violence in the Darien region earlier this year, MSF noted their activities resumed recently at the Lajas Blancas reception facility after receiving provisional approval from authorities. Between January 2023 and February 2024, MSF reportedly aided over 72,700 migrants with medical care.
The Darien Gap stands out as a historically significant and treacherous transit route for migrants striving to reach the United States from South America. The area has previously been a focal point of migration dynamics, particularly for those fleeing political and economic turmoil in their home countries, notably Venezuela. Due to its dense jungle terrain and the persistent dangers posed by criminal groups and insufficient humanitarian support, crossing the Darien Gap is fraught with challenges. Recent political developments in Venezuela, especially the disputed 2024 presidential election, have intensified the migration crisis, compelling many to undertake perilous journeys. The humanitarian response, significantly influenced by political relations and local policies, plays a crucial role in the conditions faced by these migrants in transit.
In summary, the migration crisis through the Darien Gap has escalated during September 2024, primarily due to Venezuelans fleeing political repression after the recent electoral outcomes. While efforts by Panamanian authorities aim to manage this influx, challenges related to humanitarian support and diplomatic relations complicate the situation, leaving many migrants vulnerable as they navigate this treacherous passage in pursuit of safety and stability. This ongoing challenge necessitates a multifaceted approach that addresses the root causes of migration and safeguards the rights of those involved.
Original Source: apnews.com
