Panama Village Under Siege: Residents Voice Safety Fears

Emberá Purú Community Voices Concerns Amidst Safety Restrictions A community meeting in the Panamanian village of Emberá Purú highlighted growing concerns among residents regarding their safety and restricted movement. The meeting, attended by representatives from the United Nations (UN) and the Defensoría del Pueblo (Ombudsman's Office), provided a platform for locals to voice their anxieties. One speaker passionately described their feelings of powerlessness and vulnerability, stating, "We feel impotent, unprotected. We have to barricade our entrances to prevent surprise attacks." The sentiment reflects the community's struggle to access their lands and work, a situation exacerbated by the ongoing restrictions. The meeting underscored the urgent need for solutions to address the community's safety concerns and facilitate their ability to resume normal life. The presence of UN and Defensoría del Pueblo representatives signals a commitment to finding a resolution and ensuring the well-being of the Emberá Purú community.