Overview

• Panama has begun formalizing a boat route for migrants returning to South America, bypassing the dangerous Darien Gap jungle.
• The increase in reverse migration follows stricter U.S. immigration policies under the Trump administration, leaving many migrants unable to seek asylum in the U.S.
• Last week, a boat carrying migrants capsized in rough waters, resulting in the death of an 8-year-old Venezuelan girl, raising concerns about safety measures.
• Panamanian authorities acknowledge their involvement in monitoring and organizing these boat trips but face criticism over inadequate safety precautions.
• Indigenous communities in Panama, such as the Guna Yala, report resource strains due to the growing number of migrants passing through their territories.