Panama Contemplates Border Closure Amid Surge in Irregular Migrants from Colombia
Panama Considers Shutting Colombia Border Due to Influx of Irregular Migrants
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Amidst a concerning upsurge in the influx of irregular migrants over the past few months, Panama is deliberating the possibility of shutting down its land border shared with neighboring Colombia. The escalating number of migrants traversing the challenging terrain of the Darien Gap, the dense forests connecting the two nations, has prompted Panama to raise alarms and voice the need for international cooperation.
Expressing disappointment in the sluggish progress of global collaboration mechanisms and the insufficient measures taken by Colombian authorities, Panama's government has indicated that the option of closing the border as a measure to stem the irregular migration tide is under serious consideration.
According to Public Security Minister Juan Manuel Pino, a staggering 307,000 individuals have illicitly entered Panama in the year 2023 alone. Pino stated, "We have reached an unprecedented level of irregular migrants, and we are actively seeking international cooperation."
Pino emphasized that the actions taken to address this substantial human movement have proven inadequate. He disclosed that on a daily basis, between 2,000 and 3,000 people make their way into the country, further straining the resources and capacities of the border control systems.
The Darien Gap, a critical transit point for migrants fleeing conditions of poverty and rampant violence, with hopes of finding improved prospects in North America, has tragically turned into a perilous path. Many migrants face grave dangers in the lawless jungles, encountering treacherous mountains, swamps, rivers, and steep ravines that often lead to unfortunate outcomes.
In response to the ongoing situation, Panama has established migration stations near its southern border with Colombia and its northern border with Costa Rica. At these stations, migrants are provided with essential care, including healthcare and nourishment, to address their immediate needs.
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