Overview

• The governments of Colombia, Panama and Costa Rica, with support from the U.N. human rights office, documented more than 14,000 people reversing course since early 2025.
• Those interviewed were 97% Venezuelan, with about half planning to return to Venezuela, roughly a quarter aiming for Colombia, and many uncertain about their next destination.
• Migrants cited refusal of entry to the U.S. (49%), policy changes (46%), lack of funds (34%), and fear of detention or deportation (17%) as key reasons for turning back.
• Humanitarian support has thinned as U.S. financing declined and Panama tightened transit, exposing returnees to scams, risky boat journeys, and criminal groups along routes to Necoclí and Buenaventura.
• U.N. officials urged urgent aid and safeguards for stranded families as U.S. Border Patrol reports record-low apprehensions and recent months without releases.