A New and Risky Migration Route: Latin American Migrants Returning Home via Panama’s Seas
The Shift in Migration Routes: From Jungle to Sea
In recent months, a growing number of Latin American migrants, who had initially hoped to reach the United States, are now abandoning their journey and returning to their home countries in South America. Instead of braving the treacherous Darien Jungle—a notorious and dangerous route between North and South America—many are turning to a new, equally perilous path: the sea. Migrants are increasingly boarding small boats on Panama’s Caribbean coast, embarking on a risky journey to Colombia and beyond. This shift in migration patterns has raised concerns among authorities, who warn of the dangers associated with these maritime crossings.
The rise in sea-based migration coincides with stricter immigration policies enforced by the Trump administration. These policies, which aim to limit entry into the U.S. and expedite the removal of migrants, have discouraged many from continuing their journey north. Faced with the prospect of being turned back or deported, thousands have chosen to return to their home countries, opting for the shorter but no less dangerous sea route through Panama.
The Dangers of the Sea: A Deadly Alternative to the Jungle
The boat rides, which often span more than 100 nautical miles in a single day, are fraught with risk. Last week, tragedy struck when an eight-year-old Venezuelan girl died after the boat she was traveling on sank near the Panamanian community of Mansucum. The incident occurred just off the coast of Panama, near the border with Colombia. The boat, which had set off from the Port of Llano Carti toward La Miel, Panama, was one of three vessels attempting the crossing. While the other two boats turned back due to adverse weather conditions, the third continued, ignoring warnings, and ultimately sank. Authorities reported that 20 migrants, mostly from Venezuela and Colombia, were rescued following the shipwreck.
The Panamanian foreign ministry expressed regret over the incident, reaffirming the country’s commitment to international cooperation and respect for human rights, particularly in situations involving vulnerable individuals. However, the tragedy underscores the immense risks migrants face when opting for this maritime route. The open sea, with its unpredictable weather conditions and lack of safety measures, has become a new frontier of danger for those seeking to return home.
The Rise of Reverse Migration: Why Migrants Are Choosing the Sea Route
The decision to return home via the sea route is not taken lightly. For many migrants, the journey to the U.S. had already been arduous, with countless obstacles and challenges along the way. The Darien Jungle, once the primary route for migrants traveling north, has become even more treacherous in recent years, with reports of violence, theft, and even death. Faced with these dangers, as well as the increasingly stringent U.S. immigration policies, many have decided to abandon their northern journey and instead return to their home countries in South America.
The shift toward reverse migration has been particularly evident in the Guna Yala indigenous territory of northeastern Panama. This region, known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture, has become an unlikely hotspot for migrant crossings. In recent weeks, there has been a significant increase in the number of migrants passing through Guna Yala, with many seeking boat rides to Colombia. On Sunday alone, at least 110 migrants attempted to cross from the ports of Guna Yala to the Colombian port town of Necoclí. While the exact number of migrants taking this reverse route remains unclear, the trend is undeniable—a growing number of individuals are opting for the sea route as a means of returning home.
The Strain on Local Communities: Guna Yala’s Plea for Assistance
The influx of migrants passing through Guna Yala has placed a significant strain on the local community. The Guna people, an indigenous group known for their rich cultural heritage and autonomous governance, are struggling to cope with the sudden arrival of large numbers of migrants. According to Anelio Merry, a spokesperson for the Guna community, the region lacks the necessary infrastructure and services to adequately care for these individuals. In a statement released on Sunday, the Guna community called on the Panamanian and U.S. governments, as well as international organizations, to address the situation and suspend the "massive arrival of migrants" to their territory.
The Guna community’s concerns are shared by many in the region. With limited resources and a lack of preparedness for the influx of migrants, there is a growing fear that the situation could spiral out of control. The strain on local resources, combined with the potential for tension between migrants and the indigenous population, has created a volatile environment. The Guna people, who have historically been protective of their land and culture, are now finding themselves at the center of a regional migration crisis.
Authorities Respond: Balancing Security and Humanitarian Concerns
Panamanian authorities have acknowledged the growing trend of reverse migration and are taking steps to address the issue. According to Panamanian Security Minister Frank Ábrego, the boat rides are occurring "with the full knowledge" of authorities in the Guna Yala region. Ábrego explained that SENAFRONT, Panama’s National Border Service, has established designated departure points in remote areas of Guna Yala to facilitate the migrants’ journey south. For example, the old airport in Ustupu, an uninhabited area, has been used as a departure point for boats heading to La Miel, near the Colombian border.
While the Panamanian government has taken measures to manage the situation, questions remain about the safety and legality of these crossings. Critics argue that facilitating the migrants’ departure without ensuring their safety may inadvertently put more lives at risk. The recent tragedy involving the eight-year-old Venezuelan girl has only heightened these concerns. As the situation continues to unfold, the Panamanian government will need to strike a delicate balance between maintaining security and upholding its commitment to human rights.
The Broader Implications: A Growing Regional Migration Crisis
The emergence of the sea route as a means of reverse migration highlights the complexity and urgency of the migration crisis in the Americas. For many migrants, the decision to return home is not made lightly, and the dangers of the journey are a stark reminder of the desperation driving these individuals. The situation in Panama serves as a microcosm of the broader regional challenges posed by migration, with governments and international organizations struggling to respond effectively.
As the number of migrants attempting the sea route continues to rise, the need for a coordinated and compassionate response becomes increasingly urgent. The tragic death of the young Venezuelan girl serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of this crisis. It is only through greater international cooperation and a commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of all individuals that this crisis can be adequately addressed. For now, the migrants attempting the perilous journey from Panama to Colombia remain caught in a cycle of uncertainty, their futures hanging precariously in the balance.
