Overview

• More than 14,000 people who had sought to reach the United States have reversed course in 2025, with 97% of those interviewed identified as Venezuelan.
• Northbound movement through the Darién Gap has fallen by about 97% this year, according to the joint report released with UN support.
• Investigators document kidnappings, extortion, sexual violence and trafficking, with additional risks including recruitment of children by armed groups.
• Many return by precarious sea routes run by smugglers charging roughly $230–$280, and overwhelmed transit points such as Necoclí, Capurganá and Buenaventura face mounting strain.
• The report urges a trinational action plan to provide shelter, food and health care and calls for Colombia to maintain Temporary Protection Permits for Venezuelans.