The Perilous Journey of Afghan Refugees Through Latin America to the U.S.

Afghan refugees, fleeing the Taliban regime, face a harrowing journey across Latin America to seek asylum at the U.S. border. Led by individuals like Abdul Bais, a former diplomat, these refugees embark on treks through daunting landscapes, including the dense Darien Gap, a roadless jungle between Colombia and Panama. This journey is fraught with risks, not just from the terrain but also from criminal groups and corrupt officials targeting them for ransom and bribes.

Over 3,000 Afghan refugees have traversed the Darien Gap since the Taliban’s takeover in 2021, facing language barriers and cultural unfamiliarity along the way. Many are former professionals who saved up thousands of dollars for the trip, only to become victims of organized crime in Latin America. Despite the dangers and the high costs, for many, this perilous route remains the only option to reach a safe haven and build a new life away from the threats of the Taliban regime.