Panama

USAID programs in Panama promote economic growth, sustainable forestry, citizen security, active civil society, and opportunities for Panama’s at-risk youth, including:

• Outreach centers that provide a safe environment for education and recreation, offer alternatives to gangs through job training, and empower youth to take an active role in their communities. USAID partners with local businesses, NGOs, and the Goverment of Panama to operate the centers and create a broad base of support for Panama’s youth.

• Environmental programs that promote sound management of forests and natural resources, particularly in the Darien province, one of the world’s most biologically diverse regions. The Darien programs increase family incomes in indigenous communities through environmentally friendly economic activities.

• An initiative to reform the judicial sector and support a more transparent and expedient legal process.