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Workers unions and social movements in Panama have mobilized in huge numbers against a copper mining contract. The protests have been ongoing for the 8th consecutive day, despite concessions from government. Here is why.

The government signed a public contract for open-air copper mining with the Canadian company First Quantum Minerals (FQM). The environmental damage caused by mining in Panama is the primary cause of the mass unrest.

Last Friday, the President of Panama, Laurentino Cortizo, announced the suspension of all new mining contracts and on Sunday presented a referendum on whether to continue with the contract with First Quantum Minerals.

In response to this news, and to the continued protests, the shared price of FQM was down 28% at the close of trading on Monday.

Saúl Méndez, leader of the construction workers union, one of the largest groups organizing the protests, stated that the protests will continue regardless of these concessions.

More protests are planned for the coming days. The teachers union has also announced that they will begin an indefinite strike until the contract is cancelled.

FQM has been mining and exporting copper in Panama ever since 2019, but protesters are tired of the huge environmental damage it has caused to rivers, drinking water, and wildlife, as well as the low revenues it brings for the country.

#PanamaProtest #Antiimperialismo #Anticapitalismo