In Panama, migrants cross the Darién Pass and come ashore.
The number of migrant children crossing the Dalrién Pass has surged by 40% so far this year, and the number of migrant children passing through the route could break records for the fifth year in a row, UNICEF reported today.
The Darién Pass is an unopened section of the Pan-American Highway on the border between Colombia and Panama, measuring 160 kilometers long and 50 kilometers wide. Consisting of large swamps and forests, the two countries agreed not to develop roads due to the high cost of paving and environmental damage.
Many people who lack regular migration channels choose to enter North America through it, but have to hike over steep mountains, endure torrential rains, and wade through fast-flowing rivers. During the dry season, people walk an average of four to seven days to cross the pass. This can take up to 10 days during the nine-month-long rainy season.
In the first four months of 2024, more than 30,000 children crossed the Darién Pass, a significant increase compared to the same period last year. Of these, about 2,000 children are unaccompanied or separated from their families. The data also show that the number of migrant children on the route is growing five times faster than adults.
Extremely harsh environments
UNICEF Deputy Executive Director Ted Chaiban said the Darién Pass was not the place for children to go. Many children have lost their lives during this arduous and dangerous journey. Many of the children who survived arrived sick, starving, dehydrated, often with wounds or infections and in need of help. Women give birth on the way, bringing new life into the world in the most challenging circumstances.
Based on current trends, 800,000 people are expected to cross the bush in 2024, including 160,000 children and adolescents. Given the extreme conditions they face on the way, these migrants may require significant humanitarian assistance.
Provide support for children
Since 2018, UNICEF has been supporting children moving up the migration route. That year, only 522 children crossed the rainforest.
Today, with donor funding, UNICEF uses its own funds to provide vital services such as water, sanitation and care, child protection, health care and gender-based violence in key areas along the route, as well as supporting host communities through which migrants pass.
Funding is urgently needed
With children making up one in five migrants, UNICEF's response is more important than ever, Chaiban said.
In 2024, UNICEF is appealing for US$7.64 million to meet the urgent needs of Panama's growing number of migrant children and families. However, only 10% of the funds have been secured so far.
Chaban commended the host community, donors and the Government of Panama for helping to support children and their families, and called for more funds to be raised.
"The dangers to children and their needs are increasing day by day," he stressed. We need to continue to ensure that no child is left behind. If the response is underfunded, its reach will be limited. ”
