In-depth reporting on government actions, political parties, and policy debates in Panama. We track elections, legislative changes, and the actors shaping public life.
Banesco has launched an ICSID arbitration against Panama, with Clifford Chance serving as counsel in the international investment dispute. The case highlights the legal and economic stakes of investor-state conflicts for Panama.
Russia and Ukraine accused each other of breaking a Victory Day ceasefire as fighting continued across the front lines. The failure of the truce highlights how far the two sides remain from any lasting de-escalation.
Russia is marking Victory Day with a smaller military display as Ukraine intensifies attacks that have increased pressure on the Kremlin. The reduced celebration reflects the war’s growing impact inside Russia.
Global migration cooperation is making some progress, but shifting routes are pushing migrants into more dangerous and deadly journeys. The trend has clear implications for Panama and the wider region.
The United States and Iran have traded accusations over clashes near the Strait of Hormuz, raising fears of a wider escalation around a critical global shipping lane. The standoff could rattle energy markets and trade routes well beyond the Middle East.
Legal reforms passed in Panama helped reshape Unachi’s hiring rules, swelling its payroll and strengthening Rector Etelvina Medianero de Bonagas’ hold on power. The university now faces a heavy salary burden, debt to Social Security, and mounting scrutiny.
Panama’s Attorney General for Administration urged the Supreme Court to uphold the environmental approval for Puerto Barú in Chiriquí. The project remains under legal challenge and separate review tied to UNESCO concerns over possible impacts on Coiba.
Martín Torrijos and José Raúl Mulino led Panama’s 2024 presidential race in reported private donations, with RM posting the highest combined total once Ricardo Martinelli’s earlier fundraising is included. The campaign finance figures also show how much each ticket spent on advertising, transport and organization.
Panama’s education system is facing scrutiny over a costly university payroll and a scheme involving fake diplomas used to gain illegal advantages. Both cases highlight weak oversight and the impact on students.
Panama’s Fourth Bridge over the Canal faces a new $295 million redesign cost, lifting the total to $2.387 billion and delaying completion to December 2028. Lawmakers pressed officials on accountability as the government defended the revised traffic plan.
A Panamanian political column targets overdue public debts, judicial reversals, oversight failures and the legal limits on Canal leadership. It also revives debate over accountability in key state institutions.
Panama says relations with China have improved after a diplomatic rift, a development with possible implications for trade and investment. The shift highlights Panama’s effort to keep its foreign policy balanced while protecting its economic interests.
Trump said the ceasefire with Iran remains in effect, even as tensions persisted around the Strait of Hormuz. The standoff has implications for global energy markets and maritime security.
Panama’s Ministry of Education has launched Meduca SIG, a real-time platform that centralizes academic and administrative data from 3,112 public schools. The system is meant to improve oversight and management of the national education network.
Panama’s National Assembly is considering calling Unachi rector Etelvina de Bonagas to answer questions over salaries, financial strain and unpaid social security contributions. The move could place the public university’s finances under closer legislative scrutiny.
Migration through Darién has dropped by 99% after the closure of reception stations, but some travelers still attempt the dangerous crossing toward the United States. The shift highlights Panama’s central role in regional migration control.
A Panama judge charged seven former Belisario Porras board officials with embezzlement in an alleged $8 million diversion scheme. Prosecutors say public funds meant for social works were used to pay officials, while the defense denies responsibility.
Panama’s debate over inclusive education is shifting from legal recognition to implementation as Bill 617 renews scrutiny of how schools support students with disabilities. Advocates say the country needs one clear system, not parallel structures that delay access.
Panama’s cities are growing denser, but without enough green space, planning or infrastructure to keep them livable. The result is hotter neighborhoods, heavier runoff and a worsening urban quality of life.
Panama says relations with China have improved after a recent diplomatic spat, raising hopes for steadier cooperation between the two countries. The shift carries added weight because of Panama’s strategic role as a trade and canal hub.