Abstract

This article examines Panama's occupied fishersman population's evolution and distribution, using information from the 2000, 2010, and 2023 Census. The number of fishermen has grown steadily, increasing from 10,182 in 2000 to 10,648 in 2023 despite a decline in 2010. The province of Bocas del Toro shows an increase in the participation of fishermen. The province of Panama shows a significant decrease, attributed to territorial re-classifications and the creation of a new province, Panama Oeste. Darién shows constant growth, suggesting continued interest in fishing due to local economic opportunities. The analysis of fishermen's situation in Panama, based on the 2023 Census and complemented by literature reviews, reveals a predominance of residence in rural areas (66.8%) and a marked economic precariousness, with 83.2% of the fishermen receiving monthly salaries less than $399.00. Fishing is crucial, especially for Afro-descendants (46.3%) and Indigenous people (28.1%). Most fishermen lack formal education (86.4%) and are distributed mainly in the provinces of Chiriquí, Veraguas, and Darién. Sociologist characterization shows differences in education, income, and territoriality among fishermen of coast waters, high seas, and subsistence. These findings underscore the need for policies that improve access to education and diversify the economy in rural areas.

Key words: fishermen; Panama; rural areas; afro-descendants; indigenous; economic precariousness