*Panama declares state of emergency following pension reform protests* Panama has declared a state of emergency in its primary banana-producing region following a wave of unrest, including looting of shops and vandalism of property, sparked by ongoing protests against proposed pension reforms. The government has announced the suspension of constitutional rights for a five-day period in Bocas del Toro, a north-western province known for its agricultural output. Under the emergency measures, freedom of movement is curtailed, and police are authorised to carry out arrests without the need for a warrant.