Panamanians Protest Extension of Mega Copper Mine Contract Amid Environmental Concerns

Clashes Break Out as Government Allegedly Fast-tracks Approval of Contract with Canadian Company, First Quantum, Ignoring Public and Union Opposition; New Deal Reportedly Brings in 10 Times More Revenue than Previous Agreement.

Unrest erupts in Panama as protesters rally against the extension of a contract for a large copper mine, operated by Canadian company First Quantum's local subsidiary, Minera Panama.
The new contract, approved despite public and union opposition, is expected to generate 10 times more revenue than the previous agreement, amounting to at least $375 million annually for Panama.
Teachers' and construction workers' unions are among the main opponents of the contract, claiming it poses severe risks to forested land and vital groundwater reservoirs in the biodiverse region of Colon.
Despite the demonstrations, the government emphasizes the economic benefits of the mining site, which already contributes 3% of Panama's GDP and represents the country's largest private investment.
The future of the protests remains uncertain as union leaders pledge to continue their opposition, insisting that any supposed economic gains cannot justify the environmental devastation that the mining may cause.