Under a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the United States and Panama, efforts to manage illegal immigration have been bolstered through the facilitation of deportation flights. A recent charter flight, part of this program, departed from Panama carrying 81 migrants from various countries including Cameroon, Nepal, India, Bangladesh, Vietnam, and Sri Lanka back to their homelands.
The MOU has enabled funding for 48 charter flights and 20 commercial airline tickets to countries such as Colombia, Ecuador, and India. The U.S. government is contributing approximately $14 million to support Panama in deporting or expelling migrants who lack legal grounds to stay in the country.
This agreement has been credited with achieving a "99% reduction in illegal immigration through the Darién jungle." Signed on July 1, 2024, it initiates a pilot program under Panamanian law to finance deportation flights for foreign nationals without legal status in Panama.
The funding provided covers various costs including airfare for deportees, escorts, interpreters, and other expenses. Since the first flight on August 20, 2024, a total of 1,969 migrants have been deported under this initiative.