
Panama has seen a significant drop in the number of migrants attempting to cross the hazardous Darien Gap, following strict measures introduced by its new right-wing government. The Darien Gap, a dangerous 70-mile jungle separating South and Central America, has long been a key route for migrants heading to the United States. However, new policies under President José Raúl Mulino have led to a 40% decrease in crossings this year.
A Drop in Migrant Crossings
Security Minister Frank Abrego reported to The Wall Street Journal that crossings fell to around 300,000 this year, a sharp decline compared to previous years. This reduction is largely credited to President Mulino’s commitment to curbing illegal immigration since taking office in July. His administration quickly established an agreement with the United States to combat migration through the Darien Gap.
Key details of the agreement include:
Repatriation Costs: The U.S. agreed to cover the expenses of repatriating migrants who illegally enter Panama.
Enhanced Border Security: Panama implemented stricter security measures, including biometric screening, to identify individuals with criminal histories.
Despite the decrease, Mulino emphasized that sustained U.S. support is crucial to maintaining these lower numbers. “We want the U.S. administration to understand that its border begins here at the Darien Gap,” he told The Wall Street Journal.
The Human Smuggling Crisis
Last year, human smugglers facilitated the passage of more than 530,000 migrants through the Darien Gap. On peak days, as many as 25,000 individuals would traverse this dangerous jungle route. After crossing the Darien Gap, migrants were transported by bus through Panama to Costa Rica, where their journey continued.
Many nations along the migration route provided buses to help move migrants swiftly to the next country. This system created a “caravan effect,” exacerbating the migrant surge.
Hardline Measures in Panama
To address the crisis, Panama has adopted tough border policies, including:
Deploying Troops: Additional forces have been stationed along the migration route.
Installing Razor Wire Fences: These fences channel migrants into single-file lines, making them easier to monitor.
Biometric Screening: Advanced technology helps border agents identify individuals with criminal backgrounds.
These efforts have disrupted the once-uncontrolled flow of migrants through the country.
Political Context and Challenges
President Mulino’s measures have drawn comparisons to U.S. border policies. Former U.S. officials have criticized Vice President Kamala Harris’s handling of border issues, claiming that stronger action could have been taken earlier.
However, Mulino’s relationship with the U.S. is not without tension. One contentious issue is the future of the Panama Canal. While President Donald Trump expressed interest in reclaiming control of the canal, Mulino firmly stated that such a move is off the table. “The canal’s ownership is not up for negotiation,” he declared.
Looking Ahead
Although the 40% drop in crossings is a positive sign, experts warn that without sustained international cooperation, migration numbers could rise again. Panama’s crackdown highlights the complexity of addressing migration at its roots, requiring coordinated efforts across nations.
References
The Wall Street Journal: Reporting on Panama’s migration agreement with the U.S.
New York Post: Analysis of U.S. border policies and criticism of previous administration efforts.
Panama’s Security Ministry: Official statistics on migrant crossings and security measures.
These steps by Panama mark a significant effort to manage migration, but the broader challenge remains—balancing humanitarian needs with border security. The Darien Gap continues to be a symbol of the perilous journey faced by migrants and the complexities of international migration policy.