Afghan Migrants in Panama: Facing Hard Choices and an Uncertain Future

Afghan migrants deported from the United States to Panama now face an uncertain future. Many of these deportees feel stranded and unsure of what to do next because they lack money and legal ways to move forward. Recently, Panamanian authorities gave them temporary permits so they can stay while they plan their next steps.

Many had refused repatriation from the U.S. and were first kept in a shelter in the remote Darién Gap jungle. Later, they were moved to Panama City. The group includes migrants from Afghanistan and Cameroon. They say they cannot leave Panama due to lack of funds, proper documents, or security to return home.

“I don’t know what to do,” said Hayatullah Omagh, an Afghan deportee. He explained he spent all his money on the journey and now has no means to travel anywhere. Travel options are very limited because Afghans need visas for international travel.

Humanitarian groups like Fe y Alegría and the UN Refugee Agency are helping. They give shelter, food, and legal advice. Panama must either send them back home or help them settle in another country. This shows how hard life can be for deportees in transit nations. The future is still uncertain.