Costa Rica and Panama are coordinating to assist southbound migrants returning from the U.S., organizing bus and boat transport to ensure their safety and regulate transit amid changing migration patterns due to new U.S. immigration policies.
Costa Rica and Panama are actively coordinating efforts to facilitate the transit of southbound migrants through their countries, following a significant shift in migration patterns. This change arises as many migrants, previously traveling north, are now returning to their home countries due to the tightening of U.S. immigration policies initiated by the Trump administration. Security ministers from both nations convened in Peñas Blancas to strategize the efficient movement of these individuals.
The ministers discussed a structured approach to transporting migrants, particularly from Colombia, Venezuela, and Ecuador, aiming to protect them from potential exploitation by human traffickers. Migrants arriving from Nicaragua have been observed boarding buses to transit centers, where they will receive assistance in crossing into Panama. From there, they are expected to continue to the Darien province, facilitating a safer passage.
In summary, Costa Rica and Panama are taking decisive actions to manage the increasing number of migrants returning south. By organizing transportation for vulnerable populations and addressing the challenges posed by unregulated travel, both countries aim to provide a safer transit experience. This coordinated effort is a response to changing migration dynamics in the region and highlights the need for humanitarian considerations amid evolving political landscapes.
Original Source: apnews.com
