The United States and Panama have announced a new U.S. Department of State-funded foreign assistance program aimed at addressing irregular migration in the region. This initiative will assist the Panamanian government in removing foreign nationals who lack legal grounds to remain in Panama, with an objective to reduce the unprecedented levels of irregular migration through the Darien region, which saw over 520,000 migrants in 2023.
The arrangement between the two nations enhances collaboration on migration management and supports safe and effective repatriation operations in Panama, including protection screening. The removal flight program is part of a broader regional strategy to tackle irregular migration. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will provide training and capacity building to strengthen humane repatriation processes in Panama.
“Irregular migration is a regional challenge that requires a regional response,” stated Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas. “As the United States continues to secure our borders and remove individuals without a legal basis to remain, we are grateful for our partnership with Panama to manage the historic levels of migration across the Western Hemisphere.”
Under the Los Angeles Declaration on Migration and Protection, the United States collaborates with 21 partners throughout the region to take coordinated actions promoting stability, expanding lawful pathways, providing individuals with options to stay where they are, and humanely managing borders across the Americas.
DHS remains committed to enforcing U.S. immigration laws and delivering consequences for those lacking lawful status consistent with international obligations. On June 4, President Biden issued a Proclamation temporarily suspending entry for certain noncitizens across the Southern border. Consequently, Border Patrol’s 7-day encounter average has decreased by more than 40%, and DHS has conducted over 120 international repatriation flights to more than 20 countries. Most encounters at the Southwest Border over the past three fiscal years have resulted in removal, return, or expulsion.
The United States continues urging migrants seeking entry into its territory to utilize available lawful pathways and processes rather than risking their lives by crossing unlawfully only to face removal.
