The Donkey Route

The Donkey Route

Subject : IR

Section: Msc

Context: Theme of SRK’s ‘Dunki’

What is Donkey Route:

• The “donkey route” to the United States involves migrants traveling through Latin American countries to reach the US border.
• The journey often starts in countries like Ecuador, Bolivia, or Guyana, where Indian citizens can obtain visas easily.
• The route includes crossing the dangerous Darién Gap, a forested area between Colombia and Panama, facing risks such as lack of clean water, wildlife, and criminal gangs.
• From Panama, migrants are often routed through Guatemala to enter Mexico and eventually reach the US border, facing challenges like jumping fences and crossing the Rio Grande river.
• The journey is expensive, ranging from Rs 15 lakh to Rs 70 lakh, and involves coordination with human trafficking networks.
• Agents in India collaborate with traffickers along the entire route to the US.
• Despite the dangers, many migrants continue to take this perilous journey in pursuit of the American Dream.