Background on Key Figures and Relevance
On July 1, 2024, the United States and Panama signed an agreement where the US committed to providing $6 million to cover the repatriation of individuals who illegally enter Panama through the Darien jungle, bordering Colombia. This extension was facilitated during a visit by the US Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem. Noem urged other nations to replicate this pact.
Details of the Agreement
The agreement, extended by the Trump administration, includes an additional commitment of $7 million (in US dollars) to sponsor Panama’s deportation flights. According to the Department of Homeland Security, this deal aims to send a clear message: “Illegal entry into the United States or Panama will result in capture, arrest, and deportation.”
As per the agreement, over 2,300 migrants have been deported from Panama in 53 flights so far. Noem emphasized the importance of such agreements, stating that the US is willing to share the cost to ensure countries take responsibility for their citizens.
Impact on Migration Patterns
Previously, thousands crossed the Darien jungle heading towards the US. However, with Trump’s deportation policy, migrants in Central America now travel in the opposite direction towards South America.
Noem witnessed the deportation of 32 Colombians to their home country on a flight departing from Albrook Airport in Panama City, where she met with President José Raúl Mulino.
Panama’s Role and Bilateral Coordination
Panama’s Minister of Security, Frank Ábrego, acknowledged the agreement as an effective tool for bilateral coordination and described the US as a “strategic partner.”
In February, the US sent 299 deported migrants, mostly of Asian descent, to Panama following another agreement between the two countries.
Those who refused to leave Panama voluntarily were sent to a refuge in the Darién province. Dozens still remain in Panama, seeking a country to accept them.
Noem’s Central American Tour
Panama was the first stop in Secretary Noem’s Central American tour, which also includes visits to Costa Rica, Honduras, and Guatemala.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the agreement about? The US has extended an agreement with Panama to fund deportation flights for individuals who illegally enter the country through the Darien jungle.
- How much is the US committing to this agreement? The US has committed $13 million ($6 million previously and an additional $7 million now) to cover the cost of deportation flights from Panama.
- Who are the key figures involved? The agreement was extended during a visit by US Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, to Panama. She met with President José Raúl Mulino during this visit.
- What is the impact on migration patterns? The agreement aims to reverse the trend of migrants traveling from Central America towards the US, now encouraging them to head towards South America instead.
- What is Panama’s role in this agreement? Panama serves as the entry point for migrants attempting to reach the US, and the agreement ensures that these individuals are deported back to their home countries.
