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Panama has experienced remarkable economic growth in recent decades, which has led to a significant reduction in poverty. However, the country remains one of the most unequal in the world. For example, while poverty in urban areas was 4.8% in 2023, this same indicator reached records of 76% in the indigenous comarcas. What is behind Panama's achievements? What are the challenges and opportunities the country faces to foster a more equitable society?
The World Bank's Poverty and Equity Assessment for the country, entitled “Panama: From Growth to Prosperity” provides answers to these questions. To this end, the report analyzes the dynamics of poverty and inequality over the last 15 years with a special focus on territorial inequalities, the role of human capital and the labor market for a more equitable society, and social protection and investments to reduce the risks faced by Panamanian households.
How to address poverty and inequality in Panama?
The report points out that access to basic services, the expansion of quality jobs, the improvement of human capital and the promotion of household resilience must be priority policies for Panama. To address poverty and inequality, the country needs to address these needs in the short term and foster structural changes in the medium and long term.