Women are among the most vulnerable groups when crossing the Darién Gap. This perilous migratory route, situated between Colombia and Panama, presents numerous dangers, exposing women to violence, exploitation, and extreme conditions. The reality for many women embarking on this journey is fraught with anxiety and uncertainty about their futures.

Supporting Vulnerable Migrant Women

Doctors of the World is dedicated to supporting these women as they prepare to cross the Darién Gap, particularly in the area of sexual and reproductive health. The organization’s medical teams stationed at the Las Tecas camp offer a range of health services tailored to address the unique challenges faced by migrant women.

Among the services provided are various contraception methods designed to suit the precarious circumstances of the women’s journey. The need for these services is evident, as many women lack access to affordable contraceptive options in their home countries. Consequently, the women often only discover they are pregnant during consultations with our medical teams.

Being pregnant while navigating this arduous 100-kilometer route towards North America imposes significant strain on these women, who frequently face the threat of violence. Doctors of the World strives to respect and support the choices made by each individual during this challenging time. The medical team also provides mental health consultations and educational resources aimed at combating gender-based violence.

In a recent three-month period, 3,216 migrant women utilized the healthcare services offered by Doctors of the World at the Darién Gap:

• 473 women received sexual and reproductive health services, including family planning assistance.
• 81 women had individual mental health consultations, with 695 participating in group counseling sessions.
• 957 women attended sessions on sexual and reproductive rights awareness, learning how to prevent gender-based violence and sexual exploitation.

The Difficult Journey of Migrant Women

Carolina, a migrant from Venezuela, exemplifies the determination many women possess as they venture into the unknown. Traveling with a group of 21 — including two children — she is motivated by the need to secure a better future for her family, who remain behind in Venezuela.

“My family and my daughter are my driving forces, pushing me forward to ensure a better life for them,” Carolina said. Despite being psychologically prepared for the dangers that lie ahead, the uncertainty of the Darién Gap remains a daunting prospect.

Rosa, another traveler, hopes to reunite with her family in South Carolina, carrying her own children’s wishes with her as she journeys through the treacherous terrain. “We travel in a group for safety, and all we ask is to get through without encountering any problems,” she states. Their shared goal — to find a safer and more secure environment — reveals the common desires that unite many women navigating this path.

Unfortunately, the reality is that many women embark on this journey unaware of the violence and hardships they will face, particularly upon arriving in Panama. Each passing day sees more women confronting these adversities, driven by the pressing need for safety and a better life.

A Call for Global Awareness

On International Women’s Day (March 8), Doctors of the World appealed to the global community to acknowledge the gender-based and sexual violence experienced by migrant women during their journeys. The organization emphasized the need for action to uphold women’s rights and to ensure that their voices are heard, particularly in the context of the Darién Gap.

Statistics show an alarming rise in the number of women undertaking these dangerous migrations. While the challenges are great, the resolve of these women shines equally bright. It is crucial for the international community to recognize their struggles and advocate for improved protections and resources for all migrants, especially women.

For further insights into the challenges that migrant women face and the support provided by medical professionals, you can learn more about Richard Zoumalan’s work and efforts in similar contexts here.