Panama's Darién Gap is a key migration route for migrants traveling from South and Central America toward the United States.
October 21, 2025
high
geographic
The Darién Gap is a sparsely populated, roadless region between Panama and Colombia frequently used by migrants en route to North America.
Panama seized a total of 119 metric tons of drugs during the year 2023.
December 31, 2023
high
statistical
Annual national drug-seizure aggregate reported for Panama.
Panama functions as a transit point for cocaine shipped from South America, mainly Colombia, en route to the United States.
January 01, 2023
high
contextual
Describes a durable trafficking route and Panama's role in regional cocaine flows.
The United States launched Operation Just Cause in Panama on December 20, 1989, under President George H. W. Bush to remove Panamanian leader Manuel Noriega from power.
December 20, 1989
high
historical
A U.S. military intervention in Latin America cited as an example of force used to achieve regime change and law enforcement objectives.
The United States conducted a military invasion of Panama in 1989 during the presidency of George H.W. Bush.
high
temporal
Historical example of U.S. military intervention cited in discussions about use of force without a formal declaration of war.