In a surprising turn of events, migrants who once sought asylum in the U.S. are now embarking on a reverse journey back to their home countries due to President Trump's crackdown on asylum. Mainly hailing from Venezuela and Colombia, these migrants are opting to return via speed boats that navigate through the dense jungles near the Colombia-Panama border.
Previously, many migrants waited in Mexico for asylum appointments in the U.S. through the CBP One app, which was discontinued under the Trump administration, dashing their hopes of a better future.
The reverse flow of migrants is facilitated by a network of smugglers operating boat routes from Panama to Colombia, charging steep fees ranging from $200 to $250 per person. This marks a stark contrast to the previous influx of migrants heading north through the perilous Darien Gap.
One migrant, Karla Castillo, expressed mixed emotions about traveling backward after enduring a challenging journey through various countries. She decided to return home to Venezuela after realizing the diminishing chances of seeking asylum in the U.S.
Despite the risks involved in the boat rides, including a recent tragic incident where a boat capsized off the coast of Panama, claiming the life of a young child, migrants like Juan Luis Guedez are determined to reach their destinations. Guedez, along with his family, hopes to return to Chile, where his daughter was born.
While some migrants refuse to return to Venezuela due to political unrest, others are willing to face economic and legal challenges in neighboring countries rather than risk returning to their homeland. The ongoing reverse migration trend highlights the complexities and dangers faced by migrants seeking refuge and a better life.
