Panama Organizes Boat Routes for Migrants Returning to South America

Panama formalizes a sea route for migrants heading south after U.S. immigration policies tighten, but safety concerns grow following a deadly boat accident.

• 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.

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