On March 21, 2025, police clashed with students protesting against new government social security reforms at the University of Panama during an on-campus.

The incident occurred amid nationwide demonstrations opposing the reforms, which many fear will lead to lower pensions and potentially pave the way for the privatization of benefits. During the protest, students blocked the main road in front of the university’s Octavio Méndez Pereira campus. Police fired tear gas and rubber bullets in an attempt to disperse the students, and students threw stones at police.

In response to the unrest, the university suspended academic and administrative activities for the rest of the day at the Octavio Méndez Pereira campus, as well as at the Schools of Business Administration, Education, and Public Administration.

Scholars at Risk is concerned about the use of force during a student protest. While state authorities have the responsibility to maintain order and prevent disruption, they must refrain from the disproportionate use of force and endangerment of civilians and must respect the right to freedom of association and freedom of expression. Students and members of the public must refrain from violence, especially on campus, and also respect the right to freedom of association and freedom of expression. Such actions, beyond harming the immediate victims, have a chilling effect on academic freedom.

Sources:
https://havanatimes.org/news/protests-in-panama-over-social-security-reforms/
https://enmayuscula.com/generales/192383-tensi%C3%B3n-entre-la-polic%C3%ADa-nacional-y-la-universidad-de-panam%C3%A1-por-protestas-estudiantiles
https://www.tvn-2.com/nacionales/enfrentamientos-universidad-panama-policia-nacional-estudiantes_1_2182105.html