Panama
Panama has adopted a dedicated counterterrorism law, which incorporates specific provisions into the Criminal Code. There is no carve-out for the exercise of fundamental human rights.
The Definition of Terrorism in Domestic Law
A 2013 Law introduced new terrorism offences into the Penal Code. Terrorism is defined in broad terms as follows:
Whoever, individually or collectively, with the purpose of disturbing public peace, causes panic, terror or fear or endangers the population or a sector of it, using radioactive material, weapons, fire, explosives, biological, bacteriological or toxic substances, cyber operations, or any means of mass destruction or element that has that potential against living beings, things, public or private assets, or execute any act of terrorism according to the United Nations Conventions ratified by the Republic of Panama.Art. 293, Criminal Code of Panama.
Adherence to Global and Regional Terrorism Treaties
Panama is a State Party to all of the main United Nations treaties on terrorism.
| Treaty | Adherence |
|---|---|
| 1973 Convention on Crimes against Internationally Protected Persons | State Party |
| 1979 Hostage-Taking Convention | State Party |
| 1997 Terrorist Bombings Convention | State Party |
| 1999 Terrorist Financing Convention | State Party |
| 2005 Nuclear Terrorism Convention | State Party |
Panama is also a State Party to the main regional treaty on terrorism.
| Treaty | Adherence |
|---|---|
| 2002 Inter-American Convention against Terrorism | State Party |
Laws and Penalties for Terrorist Offences
The standard penalty for terrorism is twenty to thirty years imprisonment.Art. 293, Criminal Code of Panama.The penalty is increased to a minimum of twenty-five years in prison for the leaders of terrorist organizations or cells; for any person who has assisted in the creation of a terrorist organization; or any person who caused the death of two or more persons in the course of committing a terrorist offence.Art. 293, Criminal Code of Panama.
Counterterrorism Capacities and Policies at Domestic Level
The National Police of Panama, a paramilitary body, is the main law enforcement body for the country.
Glossary
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