The demilitarization of public security in Panama

The Author, a former Vice‐President and Minister of Government and Justice in Panama, describes the demilitarization process in his country since 1989. A historical summary traces militarization up to the fall of General Noriega and his Panamanian Defense Forces. The factors and stages in demilitarizing the latter back to a civilian police force are described together with the personnel, financial and educational policies implemented. A conclusion argues that better pay and greater professionalization will improve the police's self‐image even more.