Sexual violence against women in Darién: urgent action needed

The Darién Gap, a perilous route between Colombia and Panama, has become a focal point for the alarming rise in sexual violence against women migrants. Many families, including Venezuelans, are fleeing dire circumstances in their home countries, driven by a lack of hope and safety. They undertake this dangerous journey in search of basic rights and opportunities for their children, often selling everything to do so. The situation is exacerbated by inadequate policies in the region that fail to support migrants and asylum seekers, leaving them vulnerable during their crossings. Human Rights Watch highlights the urgent need for the governments of Colombia and Panama to address the rampant sexual violence faced by women in this area. Interviews with migrants reveal that many have fled oppressive regimes and violence in their home countries, particularly in Venezuela, where political repression has intensified. The lack of safe and legal routes for migration further complicates their plight, forcing them into dangerous situations. The international community is called upon to hold the Venezuelan government accountable and to ensure that the rights of migrants are protected. This includes advocating for temporary protection status for those from Venezuela and Haiti, where conditions remain unsafe. The ongoing deportation flights financed by the United States are criticized as an inadequate response to the humanitarian crisis. In conclusion, the situation in the Darién Gap requires immediate international attention and action to create safer migration pathways and to protect the rights of vulnerable populations fleeing violence and repression.