The irregular Venezuelan migrants who have crossed the dangerous jungle of Darienthe natural border between Panama and Colombia, on their journey towards North America have added up so far this year 196 mil 813The Panamanian president reported this Thursday, José Raúl Mulino.
During his weekly press conference, the head of state cited statistics from the National Migration Service (SNM), according to which the second nationality that crosses the jungle the most are Colombians with more than “16,000” so far this year, followed by Ecuadorians with “15,000”, Chinese with “12,000”, Haitians “11,000, and other countries 31,000.”
So far this year more 281,000 irregular travelers have crossed the jungle, based on the Migration figures cited this Thursday by President Mulino.
“We hope to continue with these repatriation flights every week”he stated.
PanamaMulino added, also “announced that any person who enters the country, foreigners, violating the land, air or sea migration posts, will be fined an amount ranging between 1,000 and 5,000 dollars depending on the severity of the infraction.”
This provision was established in Decree 194 published on October 25, which states that in the event that the offender lacks the economic resources “his deportation will proceed”.
The norm also contemplates that the sanction must be adjusted taking into consideration the “conditions of vulnerability” in which the migrants who are part of the irregular flow and who enter Panama through the Darién through informal steps are found.
They will be fined $300 the first time; $600 for the second; $900 for the third; and a thousand for each of the following occasions, “for each foreign person who enters in this way through the Colombian-Panamanian border”according to the decree.
Likewise, it indicates that this fine must be paid by the irregular foreign citizen. “before leaving the national territory for Costa Rica”.
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**Interview with José Raúl Mulino, President of Panama**
**Host:** Welcome, President Mulino. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the current migration situation through the Darién jungle.
**President Mulino:** Thank you for having me. It’s a crucial topic, and I’m glad to share insights on it.
**Host:** Recently, your government reported that over 196,000 irregular Venezuelan migrants have crossed the Darién this year. Can you explain what this means for Panama and the region as a whole?
**President Mulino:** Yes, it’s a significant increase in migration. The Darién jungle is a treacherous route, and many are risking their lives in hopes of better opportunities in North America. This influx presents challenges for both Panama and Colombia, as we strive to provide humanitarian aid while managing border security.
**Host:** Speaking of challenges, you also mentioned that Colombians and Ecuadorians are among the top nationalities crossing the jungle. What do you think motivates these groups to undertake such dangerous journeys?
**President Mulino:** For many Colombians and Ecuadorians, economic hardship and safety concerns drive them to migrate. They often see crossing into North America as a chance for a new life, despite the perilous journey through the Darién. The cultural and economic dynamics in Colombia and Ecuador play a significant role in this migration.
**Host:** How is the Panamanian government responding to this situation, particularly regarding humanitarian assistance for these migrants?
**President Mulino:** We are actively collaborating with international agencies to provide shelter, food, and medical assistance. We also work with Colombia to ensure that we can manage the flow of migrants effectively, while still respecting their rights and needs.
**Host:** Given Colombia’s rich and diverse culture, do you think that understanding the cultural backgrounds of these migrants can facilitate better cooperation between Panama and Colombia?
**President Mulino:** Absolutely. Understanding the cultural nuances helps us work together more empathetically. By appreciating the diversity within Colombia, we can tailor our responses and make this transition smoother for all involved.
**Host:** Thank you, President Mulino, for sharing your insights today. It’s vital to stay informed about the impact of migration in our region.
**President Mulino:** Thank you for having me. It’s essential that we continue to discuss and address these issues collaboratively.
