The transformation of an Indigenous town in Panama’s Darien Gap through migration.

Bajo Chiquito, a remote Indigenous community in Panama, has seen a dramatic transformation in recent years as it has become a hub for one of the busiest migration routes in the Western Hemisphere. The community, which was once quiet and isolated, now sees hundreds of thousands of migrants and asylum seekers passing through each year, many on their way to the United States border. The surge in visitors has created economic opportunities for locals, who now provide services such as food, water, accommodations, and internet access to the travellers. The influx has also led to changes in traditional practices and concerns about the preservation of Indigenous culture.

The unprecedented influx of migrants and asylum seekers has brought a boom in economic activity to Bajo Chiquito. Local businesses are thriving, and residents are earning tens of thousands of dollars a day from the migration. Many have invested in improving their homes, buying new boats, and expanding their services to cater to the needs of the travellers. The demand for labour has led to residents from other parts of Panama coming to work in Bajo Chiquito, further boosting the local economy. Despite the economic benefits, there are concerns about the impact on traditional practices and the loss of cultural heritage.

The surge in migration has also strained the town’s infrastructure, which lacks basic amenities such as a sewage system and electricity network. The small water purification facility and health center are overwhelmed by the number of people passing through Bajo Chiquito. Residents are calling for help from the government to address the healthcare, water, and electricity needs of both migrants and locals. The increase in population has also led to issues such as pollution, with plastic waste and human waste contaminating the environment and water sources.

Community leaders and experts fear the future of Bajo Chiquito once the flow of migration eventually slows down. The community may struggle to return to its previous way of life, as the economy and social dynamics have been fundamentally altered by the influx of migrants. However, despite the challenges faced by the residents, there is a sense of solidarity and empathy towards the migrants and asylum seekers passing through. Locals often provide jobs, food, and shelter to those in need, recognizing and understanding the reasons behind their migration. The shared humanity and understanding between the community and the travellers highlight the resilience and compassion of the people of Bajo Chiquito in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, the transformation of Bajo Chiquito into a bustling hub for migration has brought both economic opportunities and challenges to the community. While the influx of visitors has boosted the local economy, there are concerns about the impact on traditional practices and cultural heritage. The strain on infrastructure and environmental issues also highlight the need for support from the government and other organizations to address the needs of both migrants and locals. Despite the uncertainties about the future, the residents of Bajo Chiquito continue to show compassion and solidarity towards the migrants passing through, exemplifying the resilience and humanity of the community in the face of adversity.