With few migrants left, the Darien Gap has been left empty under Trump crackdown

The once-bustling migrant camp in Lajas Blancas, Panama, has become nearly deserted following policy changes under the Trump administration, which significantly restricted asylum access at the U.S.-Mexico border. This has drastically reduced the number of migrants crossing the treacherous Darien Gap from Colombia to Panama. Previously, over 500,000 migrants traversed this route in 2023 alone. However, now only about 10 people per week reach Lajas Blancas, leading to empty camps and a reverse migration flow as some Venezuelans attempt to return home by boat.
This development signifies a major shift in migration patterns through Central America, influenced by U.S. pressure on regional governments to curb northbound migration. Panama's government, in alignment with these demands, has closed its border with the Darien Gap, effectively halting the influx of migrants. The situation has raised concerns about the humanitarian impact on stranded migrants and the broader geopolitical implications of such stringent migration policies. Organizations like the Red Cross and UNICEF have ceased operations in the area, highlighting the dire situation faced by the remaining migrants.
RATING
The article provides a comprehensive overview of the decline in migration through the Darién Gap, supported by credible sources and clear narrative structure. It effectively captures the impact of U.S. immigration policies on regional migration patterns, while also highlighting the human stories behind the statistics. However, the story could benefit from more diverse perspectives, particularly from migrants and local authorities, to provide a fuller picture of the situation. The lack of detailed methodology and context for some claims limits transparency, but the overall clarity and timeliness make it a valuable contribution to ongoing discussions about migration and border control. The potential for public interest and impact is significant, though the article stops short of fully exploring the controversial aspects of the topic, which could engage readers further.
RATING DETAILS
The story accurately reports on the significant decline in migration through the Darién Gap, citing a decrease from thousands to barely ten people a week at Lajas Blancas. This aligns with reports of decreased migration due to policy changes and enforcement. The claim of more than 500,000 migrants crossing the gap in 2023 is supported by Panamanian government data, reinforcing the story's factual basis. However, the assertion that Trump's policies are the sole reason for the decline needs further verification, as other factors like regional cooperation and economic conditions also contribute. The story's mention of aid organizations like the Red Cross and UNICEF closing operations is plausible but requires additional sources to confirm the extent and reasons for such closures.
The article provides a balanced view by highlighting both the dramatic decrease in migration and the challenges faced by remaining migrants. It mentions the impact of U.S. policies while also noting Panama's efforts and the broader regional context. However, it could benefit from more perspectives, particularly from migrants themselves or local authorities, to provide a fuller picture of the situation. The focus on U.S. policy might overshadow other significant factors influencing migration and its decline, suggesting a slight imbalance in perspective.
The language used in the article is clear and accessible, with a logical flow that effectively guides the reader through the narrative of migration decline. The structure, alternating between 'before' and 'after' scenarios, helps illustrate the changes over time. The tone remains neutral and informative, making complex topics understandable without oversimplification. This clarity aids in comprehending the multifaceted issues surrounding migration through the Darién Gap.
The article relies on credible sources such as the Panamanian government and The Associated Press, which are generally reliable. The use of direct quotes from Panama President José Raúl Mulino and references to U.S. policy changes adds authority to the reporting. However, the story could improve by including more diverse sources, such as testimonies from migrants or statements from aid organizations, to enrich the narrative and provide a more comprehensive view of the situation.
The article provides a clear narrative about the decrease in migration and the changes in policy but lacks detailed methodology or context for some claims, such as the exact reasons behind the closure of aid facilities. There is limited explanation of how the data on migration numbers was collected or verified. Greater transparency about the sources of information and the process of obtaining it would enhance the story's credibility and reader trust.
Sources
- https://www.csis.org/analysis/mind-darien-gap-migration-bottleneck-americas
- https://www.thenewhumanitarian.org/maps-and-graphics/2024/01/15/darien-gap-migration-crisis-six-graphs-and-one-map
- https://www.cfr.org/article/crossing-darien-gap-migrants-risk-death-journey-us
- https://www.refugeesinternational.org/reports-briefs/after-the-darien-aid-and-pathways-for-migrants-in-panama-and-costa-rica/
- https://www.axios.com/2025/03/13/migrant-traffic-darien-gap-falls-pandemic-levels
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