Panama Global Alert

Dear friends,

We’re reaching out with urgency regarding a humanitarian and environmental crisis in the Darién region of Panama, where several Indigenous communities — Arimae, Emberá Purú, Pueblo Nuevo and Puerto Lara — have been facing extreme repression and isolation in recent months.

These communities are key partners in our work on climate and forest protection. 

Over the past year, we've collaborated with them on forest monitoring and nature-based livelihoods. Their stewardship of the forest is critical not just for Panama, but for global climate stability. But recently, their very survival is at risk.

What's happening?

In May 2025, the Panamanian government passed Law 462, granting large-scale mining concessions without consulting Indigenous leadership. In response, Indigenous groups peacefully protested — organizing short, symbolic road closures along the Pan-American Highway.

Instead of dialogue, the government responded with force. Armed police units (SENAFRONT) attacked communities with rubber bullets, tear gas, and crowd-control ammunition. Dozens of community members were injured. At least three leaders were arrested. In Arimae and Emberá Purú, the army surrounded and enclosed communities.

Community members report they’ve had a severe shortage of food. They were momentarily surviving by hunting wildlife. Children have been traumatized, and many fled into the forest to avoid the violence and tear gas attacks. 

Despite this, communities began organizing. They figured out a mutual network to buy food and supplies, but they need your support today!

How you can make a difference

Together with If Not Us Then Who and FSC-IF, HIH is mobilizing to send emergency assistance for food, hygiene products, and medicine, and potential legal aid for detained leaders.

We are preparing to transfer funds to the four affected communities we work with to enable them to purchase essential supplies.

If you’re able, we invite you to make a personal donation — no matter how small — to stand with these communities.

Why donate today  

These communities have long stood as powerful defenders of forests and biodiversity, caring for the land with wisdom passed down through generations. They have welcomed us into their territories to work together on community-led forest monitoring and environmental protection.

Today, their lives, knowledge, and cultures are under threat. Without them, there is no just climate future.

Your solidarity can help protect these communities and the living forests we all depend on.

With deepest gratitude and in solidarity,

Health In Harmony