In a series of articles we examine the current socioeconomic conditions here in Panama. Panama is growing like mad and the growing pains are evident in the City where infrastructure is strained to the max, the rich travel in style and the poor line the streets in areas that are still third world. I have often been accused of showing only a one sided view, seeing Panama through rose colored glasses, but that comes from pride in being Panamanian and seeing this country grow, albeit with some rough edges at times. A very astute lady that I know sums it up…. “Pinzon is more philosophical about Panama’s growing pains. Smiling as if she’s describing a favorite niece, she says Panama right now is like a beautiful 15-year-old girl who’s pretty but doesn’t believe she’s pretty. She bleaches her dark hair blond to try to get the whole world to like her, Pinzon says. But despite herself, her beauty and all her potential are still there”.
Let’s look at some of the other sides of Panama so we have a balanced perspective.
The first is a story of low unemployment and the strain on the system to find talented workers.
Panama 10% Growth Forces Firms to Steal Workers, Martinelli Says
The second story is about the widening divide between rich and poor.
Panama Booms While Poor Watch From Afar
The third one is a video presentation that will tell a different side of the story about the recent protests by the indigenous people affected by the proposed copper mines and hydro electric projects. Al Jazeera, an Arab news organization founded by veterans of the BBC, looks beyond the local media coverage and presents the indigenous people’s side of the story. This is guaranteed to generate a few emails.