The crisis in Venezuela has affected nearly all of Latin America, including the small Central American country of Panama, which hosts over 120,000 Venezuelan refugees. Due to its geographic location, Panama is also a transit country for South Americans on their journey towards Central America, and ultimately, the United States as the desired final destination for many.

Encompassing the Panama and Colombia border is the Darién Gap, one of the most dangerous crossing points in the world. Swaths of unwelcoming and hazardous forestry and wildlife, and gang trafficking presence occupy the Darién Gap, which threatens the lives of the hundreds of thousands of migrants who continue to cross the border on foot.