In-depth reporting on government actions, political parties, and policy debates in Panama. We track elections, legislative changes, and the actors shaping public life.
Panama’s president firmly rejected Donald Trump’s remarks suggesting the country could give up control of the Panama Canal. The response highlighted the canal’s importance to Panama’s sovereignty and economy.
Marco Rubio accused China of bullying in a dispute involving Panama-flagged ships, highlighting the strategic importance of the Panama Canal. The episode underscores Panama’s central role in global trade and great-power rivalry.
Panama’s political culture faces renewed scrutiny over patrimonialism, the blurring of public office and private gain. The answer, analysts argue, is stronger institutions, merit-based government and real accountability.
Panama ended 2025 with 593 homicides, driven largely by gang violence and drug trafficking. The increase has intensified concerns about organized crime’s growing reach.
Panama’s social assistance programs are facing new scrutiny over whether the Ministry of Social Development has enough staff to oversee billions in transfers. The debate centers on accountability, controls and the management of aid for vulnerable groups.
MiCultura is again sponsoring Sandra Fest Insuperable, saying the event promotes Panamanian folk music and supports cultural identity. The ministry says each sponsorship request is reviewed under technical, legal and budgetary criteria.
Panama will return to PISA in 2029, when the OECD test adds digital reading and new measures of media literacy and artificial intelligence. The move revives debate over how the country should measure education reform and student performance.
Panama’s social development ministry is reviewing cash transfer beneficiaries after data checks flagged thousands with vehicle-related records. The case has renewed pressure to tighten eligibility controls and improve targeting of social aid.
Marco Rubio condemned China over the detention of Panama-linked vessels, highlighting the geopolitical pressure surrounding Panama’s maritime role. The dispute underscores how shipping issues can quickly become a broader diplomatic concern for the country.
China’s tighter scrutiny of Panamanian-flagged ships is prompting warnings about the impact on Panama’s maritime sector and global shipping role. The dispute underscores how geopolitical tensions can affect the country’s registry and trade interests.
Marco Rubio said China is bullying Panama by detaining ships, and the United States stands with Panama against retaliatory actions. The comments underscore how closely the country’s canal and shipping sector remain tied to global tensions.
Panama is managing a transition at the Balboa and Cristóbal ports after a court ruling voided the concession contract for Panama Ports Company. The case has intensified debate over state control, investor rights, and how the country handles strategic assets.
A commentary in Panama calls for faster, more direct transfers of property tax revenue to municipalities as a way to reduce territorial inequality. It frames decentralization as key to stronger local governance and more responsive public services.
Panama’s economy is growing, but high unemployment, informality and strained public services are keeping many families from feeling the benefits. The result is a widening gap between national indicators and daily life.
UNESCO’s request for a report on Coiba has intensified scrutiny of Puerto Barú, a port project facing environmental criticism and court challenges in Panama. The case now tests how the government balances investment with protection of a World Heritage area.
Russia launched a new wave of drone and air strikes across Ukraine in what has been described as an Easter escalation. The attacks again hit civilian areas, including an apartment building.
Police now believe the killing of former Juan Díaz candidate Jesús Alemán may have been a gang-linked hit aimed at another person. Investigators have identified four possible participants and are stepping up security in Ciudad Radial.
Two American combat aircraft were shot down over Iran, with one crew member rescued and another still unaccounted for, signaling a serious escalation in the war. A rescue helicopter was also fired on but returned safely to base.
President Trump is seeking a $1.5 trillion defense budget as wars in Iran and Ukraine keep global tensions high. The announcement comes alongside strong U.S. jobs growth and rising energy prices.
Violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinians is surging in the occupied West Bank as a new death penalty law and the wider regional war heighten tensions. Human rights groups warn the crisis is deepening civilian insecurity and legal disparities.