The Panama Canal: Waterway for the Twenty-First Century

This paper describes what is happening in Panama with regard to the Canalʹs current operation and future plans. Beginning with a history of the Canalʹs recent ownership transfer from the United States back to Panama, the paper continues by describing changing trends in the use of the Canal, A brief discussion of laws in place that prevent interruption of Canal operation, such as provisions against strikes, is also included. Other interesting specifics, such as the fact that usage of the Canal is increasing and so are the sizes of the ships using the Canal, are incorporated throughout the discussion. Future renovations look promising, and there is no reason to fear for the future of the Canal and its increasingly important role in this ever-changing world.