Amidst Donald Trump's presidential victory, a wave of migrants traversing the treacherous Darién jungle, known as one of the most hazardous migration routes globally, have quickened their pace to reach the U.S. border. Trump's threats to dismantle the CBP One program fuel their urgency. "We're trying to get there as soon as possible, before January, hoping to have a chance with CBP One," a migrant shared with the AP.
This program, accessible through an online portal managed by the U.S. government, allows migrants to schedule appointments to apply for asylum at the border. Yet, the president-elect has declared his intention to terminate it, along with the humanitarian parole initiated by Joe Biden for Cubans, Venezuelans, Haitians, and Nicaraguans. The anticipated tightening of immigration policies, including the potential shutdown of the portal, heightens fears of widespread deportations and closure of legal entry pathways for asylum seekers.
The Perils of the Darién Route
The Darién jungle remains a perilous and challenging route, with a consistently high flow of migrants, though the mix of nationalities has shifted over time. While Venezuelans make up the majority, there is a noticeable presence of individuals from African and Asian nations, highlighting the global scale of this migration crisis. Over the past year, fewer Cubans have dared to take this path.
Impact of Trump's Immigration Policies
Experts predict that Trump's return to the White House could compel many migrants to resort to illegal means, thereby increasing the demand for smugglers and exposing them to criminal groups. Former Mexican ambassador to the United States, Martha Bárcena, noted that stringent immigration policies benefit organized crime, as profits from human trafficking now surpass those from drug trafficking.
For Cubans, the number crossing the Darién has dwindled, with some opting for safer routes like the Nicaraguan passage. However, their ultimate goal remains reaching the United States, amidst escalating restrictions and worsening conditions on the island.