Political Overview
Panama is a presidential representative democratic republic, with the President serving as both head of state and government. The unicameral National Assembly legislates on national matters, while an independent judiciary upholds the rule of law. Panama City, the nation’s capital, is not only the political center but also the seat of the Panamanian government and foreign embassies. In recent decades, Panama has pursued economic liberalization and infrastructure modernizations most notably the Panama Canal expansion project strengthening its role as a global trade hub.
Cultural Heritage and Identity
Panama’s cultural tapestry reflects its position as a bridge between North and South America, blending Indigenous, Spanish colonial, Afro-Caribbean, and mestizo traditions. Music and dance such as the vibrant tamborito and the folk-inspired mejorana play central roles in festivals and everyday life. Artisans throughout the country craft the famous “molas” (intricately appliquéd textile panels) of the Guna people, while traditional cuisine ceviche, sancocho, and tamales showcases indigenous ingredients alongside Spanish and Afro-Caribbean influences. This rich fusion of cultures is celebrated nationwide and recognized by UNESCO inscribing sites like the historic district of Casco Viejo as a World Heritage Site.
Geographical Landscape, Area and Climate
Spanning roughly 75,420 square kilometers along the narrowest stretch of the Central American isthmus, Panama features coastlines on both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. Its terrain rises from coastal plains to rolling hills and volcanic peaks, such as Volcán Barú, the country’s highest point. Tropical rainforest covers much of the interior, home to extraordinary biodiversity in national parks like Darién and Coiba. Panama experiences a tropical maritime climate with a rainy season (May to November) and a drier season (December to April). The country is world-renowned for the Panama Canal, an engineering marvel that links the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, facilitating nearly 6% of global maritime trade and drawing millions of visitors to its Miraflores and Gatún Locks each year.
