The U.S. foreign policy objectives in Panama include Infrastructure Network Protection (the Canal), Democracy, and Trade and Investment, by advancing more responsive, transparent governance and the growth of an open, diversified economy. USAID regional programs provide additional assistance in other areas.
Ruling Justly —aims at i) assuring civil society participation in promoting judicial reforms and strengthening the rule of law by improving the justice system and facilitating citizens’ access to justice; ii) improving transparency and accountability in government by supporting reform of the legal framework for transparency, and developing Panamanian capacity to curtail, investigate, and prosecute corruption cases; andReadMore/Leer Mas
Economic Freedom —focuses on i) facilitating market-led growth by supporting efforts by the Government of Panama and private sector to aggressively promote economic freedom, and increase the country’s productivity and competitiveness in order to benefit from global trade opportunities; and ii) improving the management and productivity of the Panama Canal Watershed. Activities are designed to build sector level capacity in support of increased exports and firm competitiveness and support integrated sustainable management of critical watersheds.ReadMore/Leer Mas
Community Strengthening Assistance in Darien—tries to empower Indian, Afro-Panamanian and “mestizo” communities and help legitimize local government authority in the economically least-developed province of the Darien, bordering Colombia. To this end, USAID built numerous social and productive infrastructures while promoting community strengthening and self-help activities. The benefits are helping to thwart repeated forays and efforts to lure the Darien communities into the web of illicit activities.ReadMore/Leer Mas
Small Projects Assistance—USAID and Peace Corps in Panama collaborate in implementing small self-help projects, benefiting small communities in rural areas of Panama.
Regional Programs—Included are HIV/AIDS prevention and strengthening Panama’s disaster monitoring and response capabilities.
