Venezuelans lose hope crossing the Darien Gap after July election

In July 2023, a contentious presidential election in Venezuela resulted in Nicolás Maduro being declared the winner, despite opposition claims that his competitor, Edmundo González, had won by a landslide. This outcome has left many Venezuelans disillusioned and hopeless about the future of their country. As a result, a significant number of individuals and families have begun to migrate, seeking better opportunities elsewhere. The Darien Gap, a treacherous jungle passage between Colombia and Panama, has become a common route for these migrants. Many have faced extreme challenges during their journey, including raging rivers and heavy downpours. Reports indicate that over half a million migrants crossed this route last year, with a majority being Venezuelans fleeing the ongoing economic and political turmoil. The situation has worsened for those who chose to stay in Venezuela, as state repression and the aftermath of the election have intensified. Many families, like that of Enrique Dordis, have decided to leave after waiting for election results, hoping for a change that never materialized. As the number of migrants increases, there are growing concerns about the humanitarian impact of this migration wave. Many migrants express disappointment and fear that the continuation of Maduro's government will lead to further deterioration of living conditions in Venezuela, prompting them to seek a better future abroad.