September Sees Surge in Migration Through Darien Gap, Driven by Venezuelan Nationals Following Elections
In September 2024, there was a marked rise in the number of migrants passing through the Darien Gap, particularly Venezuelans fleeing political tensions after the recent elections. Despite an overall decrease in crossings this year, September’s figures represented a significant increase, with growing concerns around the impact of reduced humanitarian aid and stringent governmental policies on migrant welfare.
In September 2024, migration through the Darien Gap—a treacherous jungle pathway between Colombia and Panama—saw a significant increase, particularly among Venezuelan nationals. According to data from the Panamanian government and a recent report by Refugees International, this surge followed the controversial presidential elections in Venezuela, which occurred on July 28, 2024. The report, compiled from interviews with migrants in reception centers in Panama and Costa Rica, indicates that the political climate in Venezuela has prompted a rise in emigration as individuals flee government repression post-election. The influx of migrants has been unprecedented; over half a million people traversed the Darien Gap in 2023 alone, with Venezuelans representing over 65 percent of this total. Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino, who assumed office on July 1, 2024, aims to manage this migration by shutting down various access points and initiating a repatriation program in collaboration with the United States. Notably, this program has not yet been extended to Venezuelans, primarily due to a diplomatic rift with Caracas, stemming from Mulino’s refusal to acknowledge Nicolás Maduro’s electoral victory. Despite a year-to-date decrease in overall migrant crossing numbers (a 36% decline compared to 2023), September exhibited a remarkable uptick. The month saw 25,111 migrants cross the Gap, marking a 51% increase from August, with an overwhelming majority being Venezuelan nationals. Furthermore, a reduction in humanitarian assistance has complicated the situation for migrants. Refugees International reported that while the Panamanian government’s measures might have temporarily deterred some migration, they have not had a lasting effect. Since early March, the operational capacity of humanitarian organizations like Doctors Without Borders (MSF) had been significantly hindered due to the expiration of their agreement with the Panamanian Ministry of Health. It was suggested that such actions were linked to additional allegations against Panamanian authorities relating to high rates of sexual violence in the region. However, MSF recently resumed its medical services at the Lajas Blancas reception station, where it had previously assisted over 72,700 migrants from January 2023 to February 2024. The challenges facing migrants crossing the Darien Gap remain considerable, with heightened risk for non-Venezuelans who face the threat of deportation in Panama.
The Darien Gap is a notorious travel corridor, characterized by dense jungle and rugged terrain, spanning the border between Colombia and Panama. Migration through this area has historically been fraught with danger, including risks from criminal groups and the harsh environmental conditions. In recent years, political instability in various countries, particularly Venezuela, has escalated the number of individuals attempting this perilous journey in search of better opportunities in the United States and elsewhere. The socio-political ramifications of elections and governmental actions significantly influence migration trends, making the Darien Gap a focal point for humanitarian concern and policy debate.
In summary, while the total number of migrants crossing through the Darien Gap has decreased this year, September 2024 marked a substantial increase, mostly due to Venezuelans escaping post-election repression. The Panamanian government’s efforts to manage migration, along with the diminishing availability of humanitarian aid, complicate the challenges that migrants face in the region. Continued attention and support are essential to address both the humanitarian needs of these individuals and the larger implications of migration policy in the wake of changing political climates.
Original Source: apnews.com
