
Know the truth. Speak the truth. Share the truth.
Why Speak the Truth?
Darien Gap is a jungle of 575,000 hectares without roads that has become a frequent passage for irregular migration from South America to the United States. It is considered one of the most dangerous irregular routes in the world because it is a tropical forest -with mighty landscape, rivers, and wild animals where organized criminal groups operate.
Information on logistical aspects of the route, like entry points, costs, day of transit in the jungle, etc., is provided by people who have already traveled through the jungle. However, there is no discussion about the real risks they face when taking this migratory route. For this reason, "Speak the truth” seeks to inform potential migrants through the stories of people who crossed the Darien Gap and faced the dangers of this route. This IOM campaign aims to encourage informed decisions on regular and safe migration.
According to the Government of Panama, almost 250,000 migrants crossed the border in 2022, compared to aproximately 133,000 in 2021. Most of them are people of Venezuelan origin, although people from Ecuador, Haiti, Cuba, Asia and Africa also pass through. The actual number of people who have disappeared into the jungle in their attempt to reach the north is unknown.
If you are willing to stay in Panama, we have useful information for you
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Which authority do I have to turn to for information on migratory regularization in Panama?
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You can go to the National Migration Service or send a WhatsApp message to the line: +507-6005-0500.
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Where can I find orientation about migratory regularization?
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In Panama several organizations offer free orientation and assistance on migratory regularization. Some of these are:
- Ombudsman’s Office.
- Casa Latinoamericana Foundation (Casalat).
- International Organization for Migration (IOM).
Regarding refugee status processes, you can get advice and assistance in the National Office for Refugees (ONPAR), the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), HIAS Panama, the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR), among others.