Colombia and Panama Reject Claims Of Migrant Abandonment

Human Rights Watch, one of the world’s biggest NGOs, has criticized Colombia and Panama’s governments for their treatment of migrants. The NGO claims that both governments can do much more for migrants escaping from violence in their territories. Colombia and Panama have rejected claims of migrant abandonment.  

On April 3, Human Rights Watch released a detailed 150-page report highlighting the obstacles faced by Venezuelan migrants. This document scrutinizes the policies of both nations, pointing out areas where improvements are deemed necessary. Following the release of these criticisms, officials from the involved governments responded to the media to clarify their stance on the matter.

Governments reject migrant abandonment claims

Luis Gilberto Murillo, Colombia’s minister of foreign affairs, talked extensively about this issue. He stated, “It’s both a regional and global challenge……We will not tolerate these accusations, because we have not abandoned the population at Darien……Colombia and Panama have carried out enormous efforts.” 

His Panamanian counterpart, Janaina Tewaney, also made some comments. “We would like Human Rights Watch to recognize the effort both countries are making…….We are the ones that are handling the crisis. The organizations that do these reports should help us get more support from the international community”, she said. Tewaney claims that one of the main challenges that Panamanian authorities are facing is tending to the migrants that reach their country. This is because most of them need immediate medical attention after their trek through the brutal environment of the jungle. 

Murillo concluded his media interview by claiming that Colombia is tending to the crisis. He said, “We are carrying out concrete actions to aid the transit of migrants.” The minister highlighted the operations that have been carried out by law enforcement against criminal networks in the region. He expressed that, following what was agreed upon with the United States, safe mobility in the  Darien region is guaranteed. 

Have they abandoned migrants?

Human Rights Watch director for the Americas, Juanita Goebertus, has affirmed that both countries can and should do more, concluding that efforts by both governments to guarantee water access, food access, and basic health services are insufficient. She added that “crime against migrants, including sexual violence cases, is not investigated or punished”. 

The organization has recommended that both countries name a consultant in charge of effectively managing the crisis. This would allow for further coordination and cooperation between the two governments.