Costa Rica and Panama Collaborate to Manage Southbound Migrant Transit

Costa Rica and Panama are orchestrating efforts to provide safe transit for southbound migrants returning from southern Mexico. Recent U.S. immigration policies have prompted many migrants to abandon their attempts to reach the U.S., resulting in increased coordination between these Central American nations. Both governments aim to protect migrants from human trafficking and improve transit conditions as they return home.

Costa Rica and Panama are collaborating to facilitate the transit of southbound migrants, reversing a trend of migrants previously heading north in search of opportunities. This coordination arises from the recent policy changes in the United States, specifically the Trump administration’s immigration policies, which have curtailed asylum options, prompting many migrants to return to their home countries. On February 27, 2025, boats carrying migrants departed from Miramar, Panama, bound for the Colombian border as these individuals abandon hopes of reaching the U.S.

Officials from both nations convened at the Peñas Blancas border post on February 20, 2025, to discuss organized transportation of migrants who have been returning from southern Mexico. Security Ministers Mario Zamora of Costa Rica and Frank Ábrego of Panama emphasized the need for safe and regulated transit for groups including Colombians, Venezuelans, and Ecuadorians. The intention is to guard against potential human trafficking while providing support to those seeking to reunite with their families.

Migrants crossing the border from Nicaragua into Costa Rica have been aided in their journey, as small groups board organized buses headed southward. Concurrently, migrants have begun to utilize boats from Panamanian ports to reach Colombian territory, thus circumventing the hazardous land route through the Darien Gap. Venezuelan migrant Bárbara Somayor expressed concerns regarding the safety of boat travel, advocating for air transport options.

Some migrants have encountered challenges from authorities while attempting to navigate their transit independently. Additionally, Panama and Costa Rica recently agreed to accept several hundred migrants deported from the United States, largely from Asian countries, with some being held in camps under less than optimal conditions. A petition has been filed with the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights to address the issues experienced by these detained individuals.

In summary, Costa Rica and Panama are implementing collaborative measures to manage the influx of southbound migrants, prompted by a reversal in migration trends due to stringent U.S. immigration policies. By organizing safe transit options and addressing the plight of deported migrants, both nations aim to provide a more humane and regulated migration experience. However, challenges remain, particularly concerning the conditions encountered by some detained migrants.

Original Source: apnews.com