Panama’s New Leader Comments On Route
Panama’s newly elected president, José Raúl Mulino, has promised to close a major passageway used by migrants heading towards the U.S. border. Mulino, the former public security minister, was elected on Sunday and stated that he will make every effort to end the “migratory crisis” in Panama while still respecting human rights and seeking international assistance.
The Darien Gap, a treacherous area on the border with Colombia, has become a major concern for the Panamanian government as more than half a million people crossed it last year in hopes of reaching the United States. The hazardous terrain and extreme weather conditions make this journey extremely dangerous, leading to many deaths, sexual violence, and other threats along the way.
According to Mulino, the Darien Gap has become the new border of the United States, with Panama bearing the brunt of the migratory crisis. He believes that closing this gap and repatriating the migrants will ease this burden on his country. However, this decision has also raised concerns about the fate of the migrants and their human rights.
The difficult journey through the Darien Gap has claimed many lives, and the official death toll reported by the Panamanian authorities only represents a fraction of the actual number of deaths. In an interview with migrants and humanitarian workers, it was revealed that drowning was the primary cause of death, but many also succumbed to exposure and illnesses.
Aside from the natural dangers, migrants also face threats from criminal groups and bandits operating in the area. They often target and rob the migrants, and some even resort to sexual violence. Doctors Without Borders has treated over 200 victims of sexual violence so far this year, with the majority being women and girls. These disturbing cases include rapes and sexual assaults during robberies.
In light of these issues, the United States has shown support for Panama’s efforts to curb the flow of migration through the Darien Gap. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, in a statement congratulating Mulino on his election, stated that controlling irregular migration and supporting democratic governance and economic prosperity were shared goals.
Moving forward, Mulino’s stance on closing the Darien Gap raises questions about the future of migration and human rights in Panama. While there is a need to address the challenges posed by irregular migration, it is crucial to ensure that the rights and safety of migrants are not compromised in the process.
The Darien Gap is a complex issue that requires cooperation and support from all involved parties. Panama, with the help of the international community, must find a solution that not only addresses the flow of migrants but also ensures the protection of human rights and dignity for all individuals. As Mulino takes office and works towards his goal of closing the gap, it is essential to keep these considerations in mind.