Human Rights Watch (HRW) has criticised Colombia and Panama for failing to protect migrants and asylum seekers crossing the perilous Darien Gap jungle route between the two countries. The report highlighted inadequate protection and investigation of abuses, including sexual violence. The Darien Gap, fraught with natural hazards and criminal activity, is a favoured route for those fleeing violence and hardships; over 520,000 people used it in 2023. HRW urged Colombia to investigate a criminal gang's exploitation of migrants and allocate more resources for protection, and criticised Panama’s ‘controlled flow’ strategy, which it said needed to be modified. It also called for the appointment of a senior official to coordinate responses with the UN and humanitarian groups.