OPINION: The path to  a better Panama

Stereotypes and the pernicious effect of using adjectives to disqualify and diminish people. For years, Panamanians have let negativism and pessimism take our civic culture. We have allowed mediocrity to be the term that defines our government, politics and institutions. While we celebrate with cynicism and resignation the supposed fact that we cannot be better, or that the optimum is what we already have. On the other hand, the World Youth Day (WYD) has shown us that another reality, that of a better country, is possible. While the streets are kept clean, contacts between neighbors, fellow citizens and visitors are given with cordiality, and Panamanian homes share smiles, roof and friendship with the young people of the five continents, it is clear that we are better than we have believed. This is the country that regained its democracy, achieved sovereignty over the Panama Canal, expanded it successfully, and maintained the capacity to carry out major works not only of infrastructure but also of human development. If we propose to the Panamanians to continue with the achievements of WYD, we will be able to reorganize our public administration, give integrity and efficiency to social security, and save justice. WYD has shown us the true country we are. and maintains the capacity to carry out large works not only of infrastructure but also of human development. If we propose to the Panamanians to continue with the achievements of WYD, we will be able to reorganize our public administration, give integrity and efficiency to social security, and save justice. WYD has shown us the true country we are. and maintains the capacity to carry out large works not only of infrastructure but also of human development. If we propose to the Panamanians to continue with the achievements of WYD, we will be able to reorganize our public administration, give integrity and efficiency to social security, and save justice.