Game of Norms: Panama, the International Community, and Indigenous Rights

Abstract

As it has sought to be recognized as a developed nation with equitable human rights, the government of Panama has been an active player in international discussion of indigenous rights. The indigenous people of Panama continue to face serious challenges. Our research examines the Ngäbe Buglé because they are the largest and most politically active indigenous groups in Panama. Almost half of the indigenous people live on semiautonomous reservations (comarcas). Although some may hail Panama's creation of comarcas as a milestone for indigenous rights, norms are only partially effective in this case. The influence of key stakeholders can influence how norms are carried out. In Panama, the government alternates between attempting to constrain civil society and giving in to demands when the protests can no longer be ignored. The Panamanian government has shown little respect for indigenous rights in its battle over natural resources located on the comarcas; moreover, the indigenous do not enjoy the same rights and privileges as those Panamanians living outside of the comarcas.

Social mobilization against large hydroelectric dams: A comparison of Ethiopia, Brazil, and Panama

“…When construction began in 2011, access to the site was restricted by Ngäbe protesters (Sogandares, 2011). This set in motion a protest movement that would last over 7 years, with tactics ranging from direct action on the ground to petitioning German and Dutch embassies (Watts, Brannum, & Ruff, 2014). Following sustained pressure and social mobilization in the form of marches, preventing access to the site, and blockading the Pan-American Highway, the Ngäbe gained international attention and support (Watts et al, 2014).…”

“…This set in motion a protest movement that would last over 7 years, with tactics ranging from direct action on the ground to petitioning German and Dutch embassies (Watts, Brannum, & Ruff, 2014). Following sustained pressure and social mobilization in the form of marches, preventing access to the site, and blockading the Pan-American Highway, the Ngäbe gained international attention and support (Watts et al, 2014). This resulted in James Anaya, the UN Special Rapporteur on Indigenous Peoples, visiting to investigate the situation in 2014 (UN Special Rapporteur, 2014).…”

“…This agreement was unacceptable to the M-10, who escalated their tactics by blocking the Pan-American Highway in 2012. In response, the Panamanian government authorized the use of teargas and birdshot; resulting in allegations of police brutality and the death of one indigenous protester (Watts et al, 2014). These violent and well-publicized events pressured the government into further negotiations with the Cacica, mediated by the Catholic Church (DEG, 2015).…”