Panama’s Measures to Stem Record Migration via Darien Gap

Panama has announced several steps intended to stop the record-breaking flood of migrants crossing its border with Colombia to address the extraordinary rise in migration through the perilous Darien Gap. Migration routes for people trying to reach the United States today primarily pass via the dangerous Darien Gap, a region of deep jungle.

A startling 350,000 migrants have passed through the Darien Gap this year alone, breaking the previous year’s record of under 250,000. Panama’s immigration authorities have moved quickly as a result of the rise in migration.

Samira Gozaine, the director of the National Immigration Authority, disclosed that President Laurentino Cortizo had approved using charter planes for deportations. This action demonstrates Panama’s resolve to stop the influx of migrants by turning away those who do not match the requirements for admission. Gozaine emphasized authorities also intend to build facilities in the border regions where immigrants will register. This will make it easier to manage migrants methodically while keeping them apart from local communities. The objective is to better control the influx and lessen any potential hostility between migrants and locals.

Additionally, Panama will tighten the rules for foreigners flying into the country. Visitors will need to show proof of access to at least $1,000, up from the current $500, and the length of their stay will be cut from 90 to 15 days for tourists. Gozaine highlighted that not all nationalities will be affected equally by these changes. “We will expand these deportations so that the necessary impact is realized.“

Authorities also intend to build facilities in the border regions where immigrants will register. This will make it easier to manage migrants methodically while keeping them apart from local communities. The objective is to better control the influx and lessen any potential hostility between migrants and locals.

Additionally, Panama will tighten the rules for foreigners flying into the country. Visitors will need to show proof of access to at least $1,000, up from the current $500, and the length of their stay will be cut from 90 to 15 days for tourists. Gozaine highlighted that not all nationalities will be affected equally by these changes.