: Recent attempts to pass new anti-corruption laws have been blocked in the National Assembly, with critics citing a lack of executive support. Key Corruption Flashpoints in 2026

Several ongoing investigations and structural issues define the current landscape: Panama Country Report 2026 - Bti-project.org

Despite various administrative shifts, Panama is currently perceived as "stuck" in its fight against corruption, maintaining a low score of 33/100 on recent integrity indexes.

: A 2025 survey by Prensa Latina identified corruption as the foremost obstacle to national development, cited by nearly 24% of respondents.

: High-profile cases, such as the Odebrecht bribery scandal involving former presidents Ricardo Martinelli and Juan Carlos Varela , have faced repeated delays in the Supreme Court.