Migration Policy 2024: New Panamanian Presidency and its Implications for Migration and Regional Stability

Today, José Raúl Mulino assumed the presidency of Panama, marking the start of a term that carries significant implications for the region, including issues related to migration patterns and international relations. The international community, especially the United States, must closely monitor Mulino's administration due to his plans to manage immigration and enhance border security. Mulino's proposal to sign an agreement with the U.S. to repatriate migrants crossing the Darién jungle raises serious human rights concerns. This approach, reminiscent of El Salvador's "mano dura" policies, risks leading to human rights violations, increased regional tensions, and exacerbating the root causes of migration. Understanding these potential impacts is crucial for developing effective, humane, and cooperative migration strategies that uphold the rights and dignity of all individuals.

Mulino himself has emphasized the international dimension of this issue, stating, "This is a problem for the United States, not Panama. The U.S. border is not Texas, it's Darién, and they need to realize that it is unaffordable for us." 

Two of AfroResistance’s main concerns about this new administration:

Human Rights Concerns in Immigration Policy: Mulino's plan to close the Panama-Colombia border and repatriate migrants raises significant human rights concerns. According to his statements, Mulino signed an agreement with the United States to manage the repatriation of migrants crossing the Darién jungle. This agreement involves U.S. cooperation in verifying and overseeing the repatriation process, ensuring 'compliance' with human rights standards. Mulino's plan includes deploying flights to return migrants to their home countries, primarily Colombia and Venezuela. Such measures, while aimed at controlling immigration, could potentially lead to human rights violations. Forced repatriations, especially from vulnerable populations who endure the perilous journey through the Darién Gap, risk overlooking the asylum claims and protection needs of these individuals. Ensuring that repatriation processes comply with international human rights standards and are overseen by credible human rights organizations is crucial to prevent abuses and ensure migrants' safety and dignity.

Impact of Hardline Policies: Mulino's intent to cooperate with the U.S. on immigration and anti-narcotics issues undermine Panama's sovereignty and/or lead to the expansion of U.S. influence in the region. This new agreement to manage the repatriation of migrants crossing the Darién jungle, coupled with Mulino's hardline stance on border security, has significant regional implications. This approach mirrors the "mano dura" (iron fist) policies seen in El Salvador, which aimed at cracking down on crime and controlling migration through stringent measures.

In some Central American countries, such as El Salvador and Honduras, "mano dura" policies led to severe human rights abuses and overcrowded prisons among other issues and situations. These policies failed to address the root causes of migration, such as poverty and violence. Instead, they contributed to the proliferation of gangs like MS-13 and Barrio 18, as harsh enforcement and imprisonment led to gang consolidation and expansion both within the countries in Central America and in their communities abroad.

The ripple effects included increased violence and instability, prompting more individuals and families to flee their home country. This migration often resulted in family separations, both during the journey and upon arrival in countries with strict immigration policies, such as the United States. In the U.S., many migrants faced detention and deportation, further fracturing families and communities.

Similarly, Mulino's approach will result in human rights violations and strain relations with neighboring countries. Forced repatriations and stringent border controls could lead to humanitarian crises, as migrants often flee dire conditions in their home countries. This policy risks pushing migrants into more dangerous routes, increasing their vulnerability.

Moreover, regional solidarity and collaboration with neighboring countries like Colombia are essential for addressing shared challenges effectively. Instead of punitive measures, a focus on sustainable development, social inclusion, and regional cooperation is crucial. The international community should support efforts to address the root causes of migration, promote comprehensive solutions that respect human rights and sovereignty, and prevent the adverse consequences observed in El Salvador's and Hondura's experience with "mano dura" policies. By doing so, Panama can better manage migration while ensuring the dignity and rights of all individuals involved.

As an organization committed to human rights and social justice, AfroResistance is deeply concerned about the potential consequences for the region of President Mulino's new policies. His hardline stance on immigration and border security, coupled with the agreement to repatriate migrants with U.S. assistance, threatens to undermine human rights and exacerbate regional instability. The parallels to El Salvador's "mano dura" policies serve as a stark reminder of the potential for increased violence, family separations, and human rights abuses. It is imperative that the international community, especially the United States, remains vigilant and advocates for humane, just, and cooperative approaches to migration that respect the dignity and rights of all individuals.

AfroResistance is organizing a delegation to Panama from October 20-26, 2024, to address firsthand the implications of the new government's migration policies. This is a crucial opportunity to observe, document, and advocate for the human rights of affected migrants. Our goals are to strengthen transnational alliances with Black communities in Panama, understand the recent political changes and their impacts, address migration issues affecting Afrodescendent populations, and explore the intersection of human rights and ecological justice. Your participation is essential for promoting a fair and humanitarian international response. We will be hosting an information session about the delegation on July 16th at 7pm EST. Sign up today!