Title: Dangerous Journey: Immigrants Face Perils Crossing the Darien Jungle in Panama
Date: June 20, 2023
Every day, more than 5,000 people embark on a treacherous journey through the Darien jungle in Panama, hoping to reach the United States from Colombia. However, this perilous crossing has proven to be extremely dangerous and sometimes deadly.
Miriam Vázquez, an immigrant who recently arrived in New York, shared her harrowing experience, stating, “On many occasions, you find corpses on the road, and sometimes you think you will never get out of there.” She emphasized that nobody leaves their country fully aware of the risks involved.
In response to the dangers faced by these migrants, the city of New York, along with consulates and representatives from Latin American countries, have been holding summits to improve communication and propose strategies. Eduardo Leblanc, the Ombudsman of Panama, highlighted the dire situation, stating, “The jungle is not made for living. There are people who drown, get lost, die, and there are children who arrive without their parents.”
Efforts are being made to coordinate with the authorities of the United States and neighboring countries like Colombia to address the migration crisis. Leblanc emphasized the need for information sharing, stating, “From Colombia, we need them to share and know how many enter the jungle and see how many reach Panama.”
According to UN data, in 2022, approximately 250,000 people crossed the Darien jungle, and this number is expected to increase to 400,000 in 2023. The alarming rise in numbers underscores the urgency to find solutions and ensure the safety of these migrants.
In New York City, measures have been taken to accommodate the massive influx of refugees. School gyms, including public school 188 in Coney Island, have been set up to provide temporary shelter. Additionally, the Roosevelt Hotel has offered around 1,000 rooms for immigrants, and the former Lincoln Correctional Center in Harlem has been transformed into a shelter for migrants.
However, challenges persist. The recent bursting of pipes at the old Harlem jail forced the evacuation of some asylum seekers, who were relocated to Albany and an old Catholic church in the East Village. Furthermore, the occupation of hotels by over 65,000 immigrants is impacting tourism and the local economy.
In an effort to support undocumented immigrants who have recently arrived in New York, the organization “Make the Road by Walking” and the University of New York have launched a manual providing information about the health and housing systems.
The situation in the Darien jungle serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by migrants seeking a better life. It calls for increased cooperation between countries and the development of comprehensive strategies to address the migration crisis and ensure the safety and well-being of those embarking on this treacherous journey.
darién gap
H severe dehydration and malnutrition.”
The journey through the Darien jungle is fraught with peril as migrants face dense forests, treacherous terrain, and unpredictable weather conditions. The area is known for its rugged landscape, with swamps, hills, and rivers that pose significant challenges to those attempting to traverse it.
The dangers don’t end there. Migrants also face the risk of encountering criminal organizations and armed groups operating in the region. These groups often prey on vulnerable individuals, posing an additional threat to their safety and well-being.
To address these issues, various organizations and government bodies have collaborated to provide assistance and support to migrants making this dangerous journey. Humanitarian aid groups, such as the Red Cross, Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders), and local NGOs, offer medical aid, food, and water to those in need.
Efforts have also been made to improve communication and coordination between countries involved in the migration route. Summits and meetings are regularly held to discuss strategies to enhance the safety and protection of migrants during their journey. This includes sharing information, resources, and best practices to ensure a coordinated response to the challenges faced by migrants.
Despite these efforts, the circumstances surrounding the journey through the Darien jungle remain perilous. The risks faced by migrants are a stark reminder of the desperate conditions they are fleeing in their home countries. As the international community continues to grapple with the complexities of migration, addressing the root causes and providing safer alternatives for those seeking refuge become essential steps towards a more humane and just response.
