Panamas National Migration Service (SNM) reported a historic 94% drop in irregular migrant entries through the Darin Gap in January 2025, with only 2,158 crossings compared to 34,839 during the same period in 2024.President Jos Ral Mulinos administration credits aggressive border policies and US-funded repatriation flights for reducing the crisis.
In 2023, over 520,000 migrants traversed the jungle.Panama deployed 3-meter barbed-wire fences to seal unauthorized routes, funneling migrants into a single monitored corridor in Lajas Blancas.
Authorities imposed fines for illegal entry and reduced tourist visas from 90 to 15 days, deterring overstays.The US-backed deportation program, active since August 2024, has removed 1,886 migrants on 44 flights.
In February alone, 32 men and 11 women were returned to Colombia, including seven with criminal records linked to drug trafficking and assault.The SNM noted Venezuelans comprised 55% of 2024s 302,203 crossings, followed by Colombians, Ecuadorians, and Indians.
Despite the steep decline, risks persist.Darin Migrant Crossings Crash 94% as Panama and U.S.
Tighten Controls.
(Photo Internet reproduction)In 2024, 55 migrant deaths occurred, with injuries, sexual violence, and exploitation by groups like the Clan del Golfo remaining systemic.
MSF reported a sevenfold spike in sexual assault cases, while 30% of migrants sustained injuries during the trek.U.S.-Panama Ties Strengthen Amid MigrationUS Secretary of State Marco Rubio reinforced collaboration during a February visit, announcing nearly $2.7 million for repatriation efforts.
Panama also halted renewal of Chinas Belt and Road Initiative agreements amid Trumps threats to reclaim the Panama Canal, citing concerns over Beijings influence.Critics argue that deterrence measures like biometric tracking and razor-wire barriers risk exacerbating migrant vulnerabilities.
They contend that these measures fail to address root causes like Venezuelas economic collapse.Mulinos policies now pivot to expanding repatriation infrastructure, including a proposed hub at Darins Nicanor airstrip.
While Panama hails the drop as a security victory, the path ahead balances enforcement with unresolved humanitarian challenges in one of the worlds most volatile migration corridors.