Panama’s Newly Elected President to Shut Down Treacherous Migration Route Toward US

In a decisive move that resonates with the principles of national sovereignty and border security, Panama’s newly elected president has pledged to shut down the notorious Darién Gap migration route. This jungle passage, long considered one of the most dangerous in the world for migrants seeking to reach the United States, may soon cease to be a conduit for unchecked migration.

During a May 6 interview with a Colombian radio program, the populist president-elect reiterated his vow to repatriate migrants coming into Panama while shutting down what has become a major route for illegal migration.

“When repatriation begins here, those who try to arrive will think twice because they will not have an easy destination because they will be transferred to their countries of origin,” Mr. Mulino said.

“At no point do I say that this will be an easy action, but it will be a firm decision, with the purpose of making it known that we are not sponsoring that [migration] here and that we are going to put a stop to it.”

The Darién Gap, a lawless 66-mile stretch of swampland and forest separating Colombia from Panama, has been an Achilles’ heel in efforts to regulate migration flows. The new Panamanian administration’s commitment to closing this perilous pathway is not only a nod to order and legality but also a potential game-changer for U.S. border policy.

This stance aligns with conservative values that prioritize national security and lawful immigration processes. It underscores a recognition of the inherent risks associated with illegal border crossings—not just for national security but also for the migrants themselves, who often fall prey to human trafficking and other dangers.

Panama’s President-elect Jose Raul Mulino vowed to shut down a migration gap that has been used by 500,000 people in the past year in Panama.

The implications of Panama’s decision extend beyond its own borders. The United States has grappled with an unprecedented surge in illegal immigration in recent years, with many migrants traversing Central America and Mexico before arriving at the U.S. southern border. By taking steps to close off one of these key routes, Panama is contributing to broader efforts to stem the tide of illegal immigration into North America.

The Epoch Times reports that during fiscal year 2021 alone, more than 133,000 migrants from over 50 countries were encountered by Panamanian authorities as they navigated through the Darién Gap. These figures highlight both the scale of movement through this route and the multinational challenge it represents.

Experts suggest that shutting down this passage could lead to significant shifts in migration patterns. Migrants may seek alternative routes—potentially less dangerous but also less established—or they might reconsider their journeys altogether if one of their primary pathways becomes inaccessible.

However, such policy changes do not come without challenges. The New York Post highlights concerns regarding enforcement: “It remains unclear how [the president] intends to enforce such a shutdown.” Indeed, given the ruggedness and remoteness of the Darién Gap region, effective closure will require robust strategies and resources.

WATCH: Venezuelan illegal aliens in the Darien Gap in Panama who are on their way to the United States told me they “love Joe Biden”. @JoeBiden has given temporary protected status to THOUSANDS of Venezuelans.

Many will be rapists, murderers & future Democrat Party voters. pic.twitter.com/73Sg3lQyNX

— Laura Loomer (@LauraLoomer) April 9, 2024

Moreover, there are humanitarian considerations at play. Advocates argue that while securing borders is essential, it must be balanced with compassion for those fleeing dire circumstances in their home countries. The international community will be watching closely as Panama navigates these complex issues while upholding its newly articulated commitment.

The president-elect’s promise also raises questions about regional cooperation on migration issues. With Panama taking a firmer stance on its section of migrant routes toward North America, neighboring countries may find themselves under increased pressure to address similar challenges within their jurisdictions.

As discussions around immigration continue unabated across political spectrums worldwide, actions like those proposed by Panama’s future leader serve as potent reminders of each nation’s right—and responsibility—to manage its borders effectively while considering broader geopolitical dynamics.

While some critics might argue that closing off traditional migratory paths could lead to unintended consequences or simply shift problems elsewhere rather than solving them outrightly; supporters counter that decisive action is necessary as part of comprehensive strategies aimed at ensuring secure and orderly migration globally.

As we await further details on how exactly Panama intends to implement this bold policy initiative—details which are crucial for assessing its potential efficacy—one thing is certain: The conversation around immigration reform continues unabatedly across continents as nations strive towards solutions reconciling security concerns with humanitarian imperatives amidst ever-evolving global landscapes.