Migrant Crossings Through the Darién Jungle Drop 42% in 2024

In 2024, migrant crossings through the Darién jungle, one of the most dangerous routes in Latin America, dropped by 42% compared to the previous year. According to Panama’s National Migration Service, over 300,000 people traversed this territory on their way to the United States, down from 520,085 recorded in 2023.

Stricter Border Measures

The decline is partly attributed to policies implemented by Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino, who took office in July 2024. These measures include:

• Strengthened border controls, with key routes blocked by barbed wire.
• Repatriation flights, returning 1,548 migrants with U.S. support.
• Fines for illegal crossings, aiming to deter the practice.

In a speech before the National Assembly, Mulino emphasized that controlling clandestine routes has significantly reduced migrant flows into Panamanian cities and other parts of the country.

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Migrant Demographics

Of the migrants who crossed the Darién in 2024, 69% were Venezuelans, many fleeing their country’s economic and social crisis. Despite the decrease in migration flow, most Venezuelans continued their journey north due to the lack of direct flights between Panama and Venezuela.

Long-Term Challenges

Experts warn that these measures may not be sustainable in the medium term, as they do not address the root causes of migration, such as economic and social instability in home countries. Additionally, there is concern that stricter controls could push migrants toward even more dangerous routes.

Regional Impact

The Darién jungle remains a critical point in migration routes to the United States. The situation continues to pose a challenge for transit countries like Panama, which must balance migration management with security and human rights considerations.

The Panamanian government plans to maintain dialogue with international partners to seek comprehensive solutions to this migration crisis, which affects thousands of people each year.

From: ps://www.vozdeamerica.com/a/cae-en-42-paso-de-migrantes-por-panama-en-2024/7922534.html 

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