Alarming Rise in Migrant Children Crossing the Dangerous Darien Gap

A staggering 34% increase in minors crossing the treacherous Darien Gap between Colombia and Panama is projected this year, reaching an estimated 160,000, the Reuters reported yesterday citing the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

This migratory crisis has persisted for five consecutive years, with over 30,000 children already trekking through the perilous jungle in the first four months of 2024 – a 40% rise from the same period last year, the source mentioned.

UNICEF’s Deputy Executive Director Ted Chaiban warned that “The Darien Gap is no place for children,” as many have tragically perished on this arduous journey.

It’s worth mentioning that children now account for a fifth of all migrants traversing this deadly route.