The Darien Gap: A Perilous Journey for Migrants

The Darien Gap, a dense jungle region between Panama and Colombia, is a physical barrier in the Pan American Highway, making it the only overland route from South America to North America. Last year, over 520,000 migrants crossed this treacherous terrain to reach the United States. Driven by economic collapse and the lure of economic opportunities, migrants face extreme danger during this perilous journey. The journey involves hiking through unforgiving jungles, crossing treacherous mountains, and enduring harsh conditions. The Panamanian government has facilitated their movement with the understanding that these migrants will move through their country. However, the humanitarian and environmental impacts of this migration are significant, and the involvement of cartels further compounds the complexity of the situation.