Panama City Faces Stark Socioeconomic Disparities Amidst Urban Development
Panama City, despite its modern skyline often compared to Dubai or New York, is grappling with significant socioeconomic disparities. The city exhibits visible homelessness, poverty, and social inequality, with luxury hotels and casinos coexisting alongside neighborhoods that lack basic infrastructure such as organized trash collection, stable plumbing, and safe living standards. This contrast is evident in areas like Curundú, an informally developed residential area facing funding barriers and societal stigma. Research conducted by Duke University students highlighted these issues, noting that while some parts of the city boast modern amenities, others struggle with inadequate public services and infrastructure. The historical context of U.S. control over the Panama Canal also plays a role, with past policies leading to uneven development and segregation.
