According to data from the National Institute of Statistics and Census (INEC), the unemployment rate in Panama is at 9.5%, while informal employment reaches 49.3%. These figures reflect a challenging landscape in the labor market of the Central American country.
In light of this situation, Panama faces the challenge of promoting the creation of more formal jobs in the private sector. Informal employment represents almost half of the labor force, highlighting the need for policies that encourage the generation of quality jobs with social security.
In the words of a labor economics expert: "It is essential to promote the formalization of employment in Panama to offer workers decent working conditions and social protection. This would not only benefit workers but also contribute to the sustainable development of the country."
Informal employment carries various problems, such as lack of access to social security, job instability, and absence of basic labor rights. Therefore, it is necessary to implement measures that incentivize companies to hire formally and provide tax incentives to promote the formalization of employment.
In summary, Panama faces a significant challenge in labor matters, with high rates of unemployment and informality. However, through appropriate policies and joint efforts between the public and private sectors, it is possible to generate more and better formal employment in the country, thereby improving the working conditions of the population and promoting more equitable and sustainable economic development.
