Resumen

GANDASEGUI, MARCO A. Panama 2009: Elections, Global Crisis and Social Movements. Rev. cienc. polít. (Santiago) [online]. 2010, vol.30, n.2, pp. 419-437. ISSN 0718-090X.  doi: 10.4067/S0718-090X2010000200013.

In 2009, Panama had to deal with the global economic recession and, at the same time, continue widening the Panamá Canal at a cost of US$ 5.25 billion. The Global recession was able to slow down Panama's economic growth. Meanwhile public policies spurred popular protests and a growing crime rate. Panamá elected a new President in 2009 who was able to bring down with success what seemed to be shaping up to be a two-party political structure. On the international front, President Martinelli inaugurated his mandate setting-up 11 air and naval bases to "combat drug trafficking." President Martinelli's administration lack of political culture and experience can be signs of a weakening of democratic institutions.

Palabras clave : Elections; economic recesion; Panama Canal; military bases; crime; President Martinelli; democracy.