Panama

Panama is committed to the principles of democracy and the rule of law. The country has a multiparty system and holds regular elections, which are generally considered free and fair. However, there are still some concerns about corruption and the perception of impunity, as well as the erosion of democratic institutions.

The current president, José Raúl Mulino, was elected on May 5, 2024, and officially took office on July 1, 2024, following the disqualification of Ricardo Martinelli Berrocal as a presidential candidate for the party in which he was participating.

Prior to President Mulino’s tenure, the nation experienced significant social crises, including widespread protests against Law 406, a mining contract which caused considerable controversy. Although the Supreme Court of Justice declared the law unconstitutional and repealed it, which led to a partial calming of tensions, this episode left deep scars on society and has underscored the remarkable strength and resilience of Panamanian civil society.

Recently, a new point of tension has arisen due to the executive branch's approval of the reform of the Social Security Fund (CSS) system. This is a measure that previous administrations had not addressed, and some have expressed concerns that it, could potentially lead to the institution's bankruptcy if not addressed.

In response, members of civil society have expressed their concerns by taking to the streets, demanding the repeal of the law. In addition, the new administration is facing significant economic challenges, including youth unemployment, the recovery of private investment, and the management of public debt.

These challenges create a complex scenario for the new government, whose ability to implement effective solutions will be key to Panama's development and stability.

In this challenging context, IDEA International's work seeks to strengthen the competencies of Panama's Electoral Tribunal and National Assembly, institutions that represent fundamental pillars for democratic stability and citizen confidence in a country that demands accountability and effective solutions.