The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Western Hemisphere Program, in collaboration with the National Migration Service, held a workshop on migrant smuggling from May 12 to 14, 2022, which aims to build government capabilities to manage migration in a sustainable and humane manner. 

During the three days of the workshop, participatory methodologies were used to promote theoretical-practical learning and interaction of participants based on their experiences and specific cases. Therefore, the workshop used an active learning approach including expert presentations, peer exchanges, case analysis, group work and reflections in plenary, among other didactic resources. 

Representatives of the different units and departments of the National Migration Service nationwide participated voluntarily; those who had excellent evaluations of performance and teaching experience were prioritized after the registration process. 

Among the objectives of this workshop was to promote the peer-to-peer exchange of experiences, challenges and possible solutions to combat smuggling of migrants, identify synergies for mutual support in the development of robust systems to combat this crime, promote institutional autonomy for the continuous improvement of capabilities from the development of learning processes that encourage participating officials to be instructor in the future, contribute to the implementation of the training actions established in the National Plan Against Migrant Smuggling. 

It should be noted that Law No. 36 of May 24, 2013, created the Unit for Migrant Smuggling Affairs within the National Migration Service to "promote the professionalization, awareness and training of the Unit's personnel, as well as public servants, private sector entities and other agencies related to the National Plan Against the Smuggling of Migrants". 

In addition, the Institutional Strategic Plan 2020-2025 of the National Migration Service establishes the need for constant training for the development of the institution's human resources so that migration services are provided with professionalism, transparency, and security, which guarantees the human rights of all people and full compliance with migration regulations. 

These actions go hand in hand with the United Nations Convention Against Transnational Organized Crime and the Protocol Against the Smuggling of Migrants by Land, Sea, and Air, which complements the United Nations Convention Against Transnational Organized Crime, both of which were adopted by the Republic of Panama. 

It is expected in the coming months to replicate this training and to facilitate the coordination of multidisciplinary training with other entities and civil society organizations to strengthen knowledge on the subject at the national level.  

For more information, contact IOM Panama's communications team via iompanama@iom.int.