Migration through the Darién Jungle, the perilous migration route connecting Colombia to Panama, experienced a historic decline in March 2025, linked to the policies imposed by Donald Trump in the United States.
The data from the National Migration Service of Panama indicates that in March, only 194 migrants crossed the Darién Jungle. This figure represents a 99% decrease compared to the same month last year, when nearly 37,000 people attempted the perilous journey.
Figures declining month by month
The downward trend began in early 2025. In January, 2,229 migrants crossed the Darién. In February, the number dropped dramatically to 408, marking a 96% reduction. And in March, the decline solidified with the lowest figure since the border closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
The migrants who successfully crossed in March mainly come from Venezuela, Colombia, and Nepal, although nationals from Ecuador and Iran were also reported in previous months.
Panama seeks to close the route
The Panamanian president José Raúl Mulino, since taking office in May 2024, has been clear about his intention to close the Darién route, aiming to curb the irregular migration that impacts his country.
Panama has increased surveillance at its borders and has strengthened cooperation with the United States to manage the migration situation in the region.
The Mulino administration has also pointed out a change in migration flows, noting that while crossings from the south have decreased, there has been an increase in migrants arriving from the north, particularly from Costa Rica and Nicaragua, a phenomenon that concerns Panamanian authorities.
Trump's tough stance on immigrants in the U.S.
The decline in the number of migrants coincides with the implementation of new immigration policies by President Donald Trump, who resumed power in January of this year and has since been carrying out mass deportations, shutting down programs for undocumented immigrants, arrests, and is even resuming the construction of the border wall with Mexico.
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced that in March it recorded just 7,180 illegal crossings at the southwest border, an unprecedented number, significantly lower than the average of 155,000 monthly crossings over the past four years.
In addition, the arrests of illegal immigrants decreased to 230 per day, compared to 5,100 daily under the Biden administration.
Rubio's visit to Panama
In early February, the Secretary of State, Marco Rubio visited Panama and emphasized that the United States border does not begin in Texas or Mexico, but much earlier, highlighting the need to halt migration from its point of origin.
During his stay, the Panamanian government announced that it would not renew its participation in China's Belt and Road Initiative, a decision that Rubio described as a sign of cooperation with the United States.
In Mexico, the effects of Trump's measures have also been felt. Many migrants, especially Cubans are choosing to stay in that territory, avoiding the risk of deportation or detention at the U.S. border.
Meanwhile, the shelters designated to receive deported migrants remain empty, reflecting the decrease in forced returns.
With the southern border of the U.S. practically closed and the Darién Gap heavily monitored, thousands of migrants have become stranded in Central America. Some are exploring new routes; others are considering the possibility of seeking asylum or temporarily settling in countries like Mexico or Costa Rica.
The impact of these policies has completely reconfigured the migration dynamics of the continent. Although the numbers have decreased, the humanitarian crisis persists, with thousands of people lacking clear options to move forward, backward, or settle safely to rebuild their lives and reunite with their families.
Frequently Asked Questions about Migration through the Darién and Trump's Immigration Policies
Why has migration through the Darién Jungle decreased?
Migration through the Darién Jungle has decreased by 99% due to Donald Trump's immigration policies, which include mass deportations and restrictions on immigration programs. Additionally, Panama has increased surveillance at its borders, collaborating with the United States to manage the migration situation.
What measures is Panama taking to close the Darién route?
The government of Panama has increased surveillance at its borders and is working closely with the United States to close the migratory route of Darién. The Panamanian president, José Raúl Mulino, has been emphatic in his intention to close this route in order to curb the irregular migration that affects his country.
What impact do Donald Trump's policies have on migration to the United States?
Donald Trump's policies have drastically reduced illegal crossings into the United States, with a 94% drop in border crossings in March 2025 compared to the previous year. This is due to measures such as the closure of programs for illegal immigrants, mass deportations, and the continuation of the construction of the border wall with Mexico.
How has cooperation between Panama and the United States affected migration dynamics?
The cooperation between Panama and the United States has been key in reducing illegal migration through the Darién Jungle. This collaboration has improved border surveillance and control, contributing to the decrease in migration flows from south to north.
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