10th November 2023

With four deaths, including an alleged double shooting on a motorway, Panama’s protests enter a third week. Although there are signs of splits in the various factions, the teachers’ union has stated that protests will remain. Schools have begun to reopen but only an estimated 20% nationwide are receiving students. Prosecutors have opened 175 investigations with almost 1,000 people arrested. President Rodrigo Chaves proposed a mining moratorium which is in its second reading in the National Assembly. Lawyers have warned that arbitration with Minera Panama could cost up to US$20bn. Ratings agencies have changed Panama’s outlook to negative in response to the protests.

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Photo by: Arnulfo Blanco