Event Summary
On 7 August 2025, a criminal complaint was filed on behalf of a Puerto Barú Project developer against two environmental organizations: Centro de Incidencia ambiental and Adopta Bosque Panamá. The complaint is based on the alleged commission of the crimes of slander and libel, as well as crimes against the national economy, in the context of the organisations’ public opposition to the port project. In September 2024, both organizations were part of actors who had filed lawsuits before the Supreme Court of Justice against the environmental impact studies for the Puerto Barú project, alleging violations of current environmental regulations. These legal actions remain pending before the Supreme Court, with no final ruling issued.
This use of judicial system as a mechanism of intimidation against media outlets, environmental defenders, and organised communities is a concern for the enabling environment of civil society. It sends a chilling effect, promoting self-censorship among other civil society actors who, fearing legal retaliation, may refrain from exercising their right to participation, assembly, and expression.