Costa Rica and Panama are facing challenges with the sudden reverse migration flow as a result of increased deportations from the United States and migrants who were shut out of the US moving south through Central America. Both countries are confiscating migrants’ passports and cellphones, denying them access to legal services, and moving them between remote outposts in an effort to deal with logistical issues and prevent human trafficking. This lack of transparency and restrictions have drawn criticism from human rights observers. Panama recently received hundreds of deportees from the United States, and some of them are considering seeking asylum in Panama. However, most migrants want to continue their journey to the US.
The treatment of deported migrants in Costa Rica and Panama has raised concerns about the lack of access to legal services, transparency, and adequate living conditions. Deportees have been moved to remote camps without proper documentation and information. Despite efforts to provide basic support such as medical and psychological help, the lack of legal assistance and communication rights has raised red flags for human rights organizations.
The situation is resulting in isolation and confusion for migrants traveling between these two countries. Panama and Costa Rica are struggling to deal with the new migration flow and are trying to organize and address the needs of migrants traveling south. Migrants, like 27-year-old Venezuelan Kimberlyn Pereira, are caught in this confusing and isolated system, unsure of their next steps as they navigate through unfamiliar territories. The lack of transparency and restrictions on access have further added to the challenges faced by migrants seeking a way out of their current predicament.
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