Panamá Imposes Fines on Migrants for Illegal Border Crossings

Panamá has introduced new penalties for migrants crossing its borders illegally, in an effort to manage the increasing migratory flow through the country. According to a recent announcement by President José Raúl Mulino, fines will range from $300 to $5,000, depending on the severity of the violation. This measure comes in response to the growing number of migrants, primarily Venezuelans, who traverse the dangerous Darién Gap, located on the border with Colombia, as they make their way toward North America.

Tiered Fines Based on Violations

The Panamanian government outlined that penalties will start at $300 for those attempting to enter the country illegally for the first time. The fines will progressively increase with repeated attempts. A second infraction will result in a $600 fine, a third in $900, and subsequent violations will carry fines of $1,000. However, migrants crossing into Panama through the high-risk Darién region may see adjusted penalties, considering their vulnerability.

You may also read: “Who Are Immigrants in the United States? An Analysis of the Current Immigrant Population“

Deportation for Failure to Pay the Fine

A key component of the decree is that migrants unable to pay the fines will face deportation. This policy is designed to reduce the number of people illegally crossing the country’s borders and to ensure that those entering Panama do so in compliance with immigration laws.

The Darién Route and Changes in Migration Policy

The Darién Gap has historically been a crucial crossing point for migrants from various nationalities, primarily Venezuelans, seeking to reach the United States. In 2023, a record-breaking number of more than half a million migrants crossed this region. However, Mulino’s government aims to reduce this figure to around 300,000 by the end of 2024. To achieve this, measures such as the closure of several border points and the deportation of migrants, in collaboration with the U.S., have been implemented.

What Do These Measures Mean for Migrants?

The new fines and restrictions aim to curb illegal crossings and regulate migratory flow. However, there are concerns about the conditions of migrants crossing the Darién Gap, one of the most dangerous regions in the world. While the Panamanian government has stated it will adjust penalties based on individual migrant circumstances, the impact of these policies remains a subject of debate.

In summary, Panama has decided to impose tiered fines on migrants crossing its borders illegally, with the goal of controlling the migratory flow through the country. However, the measures also include deporting those who cannot pay the fines, which could affect thousands of migrants on their journey through this Central American nation.

From: https://www.vozdeamerica.com/a/panama-multara-con-hasta-5000-dolares-a-migrantes-que-crucen-ilegalmente-sus-fronteras/7846773.html 

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