Irregular migration in Panama and the application of public international law

Abstract

The purpose of this scientific work was to analyze irregular migration in Panama through the Darién province, based on the implementation of Public International Law and the commitments made by States regarding human rights, humanitarian assistance, and border security. The research design was qualitative, descriptive, and non-experimental, using semi-structured interviews as the data collection technique. These interviews were conducted with public officials and representatives of international organizations, and focus groups were held with migrants in transit at Migrant Reception Stations. The study also sought to analyze socioeconomic, political, humanitarian, and geostrategic factors driving irregular migration, as well as Panama's controlled flow policy and its relation to international protection standards. Its findings document that this policy has allowed for the regulation of migrant transit, including registration, guidance, and transfer of individuals; however, it also describes significant limitations in infrastructure, access to medical services, legal assistance, psychosocial support, food, sanitation, and dignified living conditions. Similarly, it was found that while reliance on organizations such as the IOM and UNHCR is important, it is insufficient given the growth and complexity of the migration phenomenon. The report also concludes that, although there have been significant institutional efforts in the country, national operational capacity must be strengthened, international cooperation expanded, Migrant Reception Stations improved, and all border control policies must be guaranteed to be compatible with human dignity, the principle of non-refoulement, and the effective protection of migrants' fundamental rights.