The Darién Gap migration crisis in six graphs, and one map

A detailed data analysis documents how crossings through the Darién Gap between Colombia and Panama doubled to an unprecedented 520,000 people in 2023. Migrants faced widespread abuses, severe extortion by organized crime groups such as the Gulf Clan, and harsh environmental hazards. Panamanian government reception facilities were stretched far beyond capacity as humanitarians struggled to provide sufficient WASH, medical, and psychological care. While Venezuelan nationals represented the vast majority of crossers, the corridor increasingly saw high numbers of travelers from Ecuador, Haiti, China, and African nations.