Panama's Plea: Darien Gap's Role in US-Bound Migration Spurs Call for Trump Era Collaboration

Panama's President, Ricardo Martinelli, has expressed concerns about the role of the Darien Gap in the illegal immigration flow towards the United States. The coastal region, known for its treacherous jungle terrains, serves as one of the principal routes for South American migrants seeking entry into the United States. Martinelli has called for cooperation from the incoming administration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump to tackle the deteriorating situation effectively.

In a statement, Martinelli emphasized the complexity of the terrain and highlighted that "we hope the Trump administration understands that the U.S. border effectively begins here, along the Darien Gap." Panama seeks to maintain a productive relationship with its northern partner, aiming for solutions that benefit both the United States and Panama. The President reiterated the urgency of a collaborative approach, emphasizing that unchecked Venezuelan emigration will perpetuate the issue.

While migration numbers saw a decline in 2024, Martinelli cautioned that this should not lead to complacency, as the figures could spike again. The Darien Gap remains a strategic point of concern, with its geographic position near Panama's southern frontier with Colombia.

According to data from the Panamanian immigration authorities, since the start of 2024, approximately 283,000 migrants have transited through the Darien Gap into Panama. The majority hail from Venezuela, but there is also a presence of migrants from countries like Colombia, Ecuador, Haiti, and even distant China.

Initiating from August, Panama has worked in tandem with the United States to operate weekly flights repatriating illegal migrants to their countries of origin. Martinelli affirmed Panama's commitment to continue these repatriation efforts with persistence.