EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE OF THE HIGH COMMISSIONER'S PROGRAMME 89

Harsh conditions are compounded by the presence and control of irregular armed groups and migration has altered the political economies of communities along the route.2 Reports have documented compounded protection risks, a lack of sufficient humanitarian support along the route, abuse of people making the crossing (including robbery, kidnapping, gender and sexual violence), and the rising number. [...] border policy and Mexican enforcement efforts Many of those transiting the Darien Gap intend to go to the United States—and frequently report even worse treatment, including by officials, on the way through Guatemala and Mexico.6 Since May 2023, to be eligible for asylum in the United States if coming through the southern border, asylum seekers need to make an appointment to appear at one of eight. [...] Implementation of this policy has led to the repatriation of tens of thousands of Guatemalans and Hondurans, who continue to flee their countries and come to the U. [...] Colombia remains in the top 5 countries with the highest number of internally displaced persons in the world and local populations continue to bear the brunt of the conflict’s impacts in the country. [...] This year marks the 40th anniversary of the 1984 Cartagena Declaration, celebrated for its commitment to providing asylum and protection to refugees, The formulation of a new 10-year regional action plan in 2024 as part of the Cartagena +40 process presents a critical opportunity to collectively tackle current challenges The NGOs call for the inclusion of explicit commitments to address displaceme.