Demilitarization, security, and democracy in Panama
Desmilitarización, seguridad y democracia en Panamá
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Demilitarization always occurs as a result of critical historical junctures. Panama is one of only two states in the post-World War II era, however, that – having experienced such a formative moment – abolished its military and stood by that decision. The luster of this extraordinary achievement may have faded in past decades, but it should not have. This article makes four arguments: (1) Panama had a more difficult task in eliminating its military than Costa Rica; (2) it has also faced more trying security challenges than its neighbor to the north; (3) despite some setbacks and problems, it has managed the obstacles posed by its unique environment well; and (4) Panamanians enjoy the benefits and strongly support their country’s demilitarized status.
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