By Allyson Dean, Graduate student at the UT LBJ School of Public Affairs
As soon as I wrapped up my time in session with the Texas House of Representatives, I flew to Panama City for the start of the Panamanian legislative session and the beginning of my internship with International IDEA. This internship culminates my academic and legislative experience in government capacity and transparency efforts in Panama. I work at the Panamanian office with a brilliant and incredibly kind team who have shown me the ropes of the National Assembly of Panama and shared insights into local hot spots. Luckily, I arrived just before the second of two annual legislative sessions, giving me time to get up to speed.
International IDEA’s Panama office sits adjacent to one of the country’s key government institutions, the Electoral Tribunal, where I am privileged to work. This institution is an independent and autonomous entity responsible for ensuring free, fair, and effective elections as a cornerstone of democracy in Panama. It has been fascinating to learn about and observe firsthand the unique role the Electoral Tribunal plays in structuring citizen participation and transparency, especially given past issues of corruption and current social unrest. I am fortunate to attend the weekly meetings of the National Commission on Electoral Reform (Comisión Nacional de Reformas Electorales, or CNRE) at the Electoral Tribunal, witnessing the legislative dynamic firsthand as they navigate pressing political issues.
Once a week, this commission convenes to review the Electoral Code and vote on proposed changes ranging from representation and qualifications to reporting requirements. These meetings reminded me of the procedures I observed in the Texas House of Representatives over the past year. However, the Electoral Tribunal uniquely provides space for recognized civil society organizations in reform discussions. Although the Panamanian system shares similarities with that of the United States, the strong multiparty presence within the Panamanian legislature is incomparable.
For a closer examination of the legislative branch, I toured the National Assembly of Panama, which houses the offices of elected representatives and meeting chambers. The National Assembly is the unicameral legislative branch, yet it operates and faces bureaucratic hurdles much like the United States’ bicameral system. I was kindly welcomed as a curious foreigner and passionate policy student, as my supervisors introduced me to several of the incredible people working at the National Assembly.
The firsthand experience with these institutions has played a complementary role to my work with International IDEA. My primary assignment this summer is to produce a report on citizen participation, transparency, and anti-corruption efforts of the Panamanian Assembly. The report examines the strides Panama has taken following several corruption scandals in the country’s history, as well as opportunities for growth. It’s a very interesting time to be examining these topics as Panama currently faces a number of contentious issues such as social security law reform, a recent memorandum of understanding with the United States regarding military presence, and grievances over citizen participation and transparency in government. As an American policy student, it has been fascinating to observe the Panamanian approach toward these issues. The chance to gain insight into alternative perspectives and policy options, especially on international issues, is one of the most invaluable parts of interning abroad.
For eight weeks, I am privileged to live and work in vibrant Panama City during the week and explore the country’s natural wonders on my weekends. My cohort and I have made the most of our free time on this beautiful isthmus, with its overwhelming number of adventures to offer. Our first weekend, we went to the famous Panama Canal, which reminded me of my insignificant size in comparison to the crossing ships that dwarf skyscrapers. Our other outdoor adventures include hiking Metropolitan National Park, Monkey Island, and the San Blas Islands. In the middle of the largest urban center in Central America, Metropolitan National Park is a not-so-hidden gem of pure jungle within Panama City. We hit the jackpot on this hike and saw two notoriously camouflaged animals: a sloth and a toucan.
The most memorable outing thus far was the trip to Monkey Island, showcasing both the best and the worst of Panama. The tour brought us north of the city via the canal to Gamboa, where we passed by crossing cargo ships to observe native animals by boat. Our enthusiastic tour guide spotted howler monkeys, tamarins, iguanas, hawks, and sloths. As we sat tensely still, a white-faced capuchin monkey boarded our boat and eventually snagged some grapes from the hands of our crew before deciding it was full. This unbelievably close encounter with the wildlife was followed by intense rain—classic for the region’s rainy season—as we attempted to walk a trail that quickly transformed into a stream. Out of the rain and in the relief of air conditioning, we spent a day at the Canal Museum to learn more in-depth history, as well as the Mola Museum, which follows the history and significance behind the signature designs of the indigenous Guna people.
My favorite trip has to be the weekend adventure to San Blas, where we island-hopped to swim and snorkel with colorful starfish and a sunken ship, play beach volleyball, and relax in the sun. The natural beauty and activities in Panama are seemingly endless, and I am happy for the chance to make the most of it.
My time in Panama has been the culmination of my academic and travel dreams. I am incredibly privileged to have the opportunity to learn and work alongside one of the key organizations at the forefront of sustainable democracy. In a period of global uncertainty, especially back home in the United States, Panama has provided me with a greater perspective on democracy in practice. I am incredibly appreciative of the people and experiences I will bring back to Austin alongside my souvenirs.