Panama is bracing for a significant shift in its immigration policy as President-elect José Raúl Mulino pledges to shut down a migration route used by over 500,000 people last year. This route, traversing the challenging terrain of the Darien jungle, has served as a crucial pathway for migrants heading north, facilitated by Panama’s transit policies.
Mulino’s proposed action seeks to halt what he views as an unnecessary and perilous journey through Panama’s territory. Emphasizing that Panama and the Darien region are not merely transit zones but integral parts of the nation’s borders, Mulino aims to curb the so-called “Darien odyssey.”
The migration route through Panama has witnessed a surge in popularity, fueled by organized crime networks in Colombia and tightening visa restrictions in other countries like Mexico and Peru. Despite the dangers posed by the jungle terrain, including reports of sexual assaults and robberies by bandits, migrants have continued to embark on this journey.
Mulino’s plan, while ambitious, faces challenges. Past attempts to close migration routes have often resulted in the diversion of migrant flows to even riskier pathways. Giuseppe Loprete, of the International Organization for Migration, underscores the importance of providing safe and legal migration channels, cautioning against driving migrants towards criminal networks and perilous routes.
Experts are keen to understand the specifics of Mulino’s strategy and its operational feasibility. Julio Alonso, a security expert, highlights the logistical complexities of enforcing such a policy along an open and largely uncontrolled border.
Cooperation with neighboring countries, particularly Colombia, will be crucial in addressing the broader migration dynamics in the region. Adam Isacson, from the Washington Office on Latin America, raises concerns about the practicality and ethical implications of large-scale deportations without considering migrants’ safety.
As Panama prepares for this potential policy shift, the international community will be watching closely to assess its effectiveness and repercussions. While Mulino’s plan aims to address immediate challenges, the long-term solutions to migration require comprehensive strategies and collaboration across borders.