Panama Establishes Unit for Migrant Safety

On April 19, Panama marked a significant milestone with the graduation of the first 150 members of the newly established Humanitarian Border Security Unit (USFROH). This unit, integrated into the Chucunaque Battalion, aims to provide security and humanitarian assistance to migrants traversing the country. The initiative, developed through a collaboration between the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and Panama's National Border Service (SENAFRONT), focuses on preventive patrolling, first aid, and the localization of missing individuals in the challenging Darien jungle. Juan Manuel Pino, Panama's Minister of Public Security, highlighted the pressing need for such a unit due to the influx of migrants from various nationalities. He emphasized the importance of coordinating efforts with Colombian authorities to ensure that migrants receive the necessary humanitarian support during their stay in Panama. Oriel Ortega Benítez, director general of SENAFRONT, noted the critical role of community policing within Migrant Reception Stations to enhance the assistance provided to migrants. The graduation ceremony was attended by government officials, diplomatic representatives, and UN agencies, underscoring the collaborative effort to manage mixed migration flows in Panama. Santiago Paz, head of the IOM’s Mission in Panama, expressed optimism that the USFROH would strengthen practices for migrant protection and contribute to the Panamanian government's efforts in managing safe and dignified migration. Aligned with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the USFROH initiative aims to promote orderly and responsible migration, addressing the vulnerabilities faced by migrants and combating human trafficking and discrimination.