Panama Protest Turns Violent: New Social Security Law Sparks Clashes

Panama Protest Turns Violent: New Social Security Law Sparks Clashes A protest against Panama's new social security law (Ley 462) erupted into violence on June 6th, 2025, in an unnamed location in Panama. Police used tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse protesters who had blocked a section of the Pan-American Highway with tree trunks. In response, protesters threw stones, sticks, and Molotov cocktails. Residents reported instances of police brutality, forcing families to flee their homes, crossing a nearby river to escape the violence. "They came into our community firing tear gas and rubber bullets," said one resident, her voice trembling. "We had to run with our children." Three police officers were injured in the clashes, with one sustaining a machete wound. A statement from the SENAFront (National Border Service) accused participants of arson, claiming they set fire to a ranch. The incident underscores the deep-seated opposition to the law and raises concerns about the government's response to peaceful dissent. The long-term consequences of the protest and the government's response remain to be seen.