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Media trust is a fundamental indicator of the quality of the information ecosystem and democratic strengthening. In Panama, where traditional media, digital platforms, and new forms of content circulation coexist, analyzing the credibility citizens assign to different information sources is particularly relevant in a context marked by political polarization, the mediatization of public debate, and the expansion of non-journalistic actors in news dissemination. The aim of this study was to analyze citizens’ trust in the media in Panama, its variations by age group and media type, and its implications for informational democracy.
An exploratory quantitative study with a descriptive cross-sectional design was conducted. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered to 150 Panamanian citizens, selected through quota sampling with age-group distribution. The decision to work with this number was based on operational feasibility, participant accessibility, and budget availability; therefore, the results are not intended to be generalized to the entire national population but rather to provide an initial diagnostic approach. The sample was equally distributed among three age groups: 18–29, 30–49, and 50 years or older. The questionnaire was administered through a digital form, which should be considered a possible source of bias, especially among older participants with technological access and familiarity. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including percentage distributions and frequencies.
The results show higher trust in radio (36.7%), followed by television (26.6%) and print media (24.6%), while social media shows the lowest level (12%). A positive relationship between age and media trust was also identified, with older adults expressing higher levels of credibility toward information sources. Among younger participants, a relevant paradox was observed: they frequently consume news content on digital platforms but report lower trust in them.
The study concludes that media trust in Panama is configured as a hybrid phenomenon in which the historical legitimacy of traditional media coexists with skepticism toward digital environments. This scenario poses concrete challenges for the media, public institutions, academia, and citizens, particularly in terms of transparency, media literacy, informational pluralism, and the strengthening of democratic debate.
