Panem is a nation set in North America that was established some time in the post-apocalyptic future. Within Panem is the Districts (1-13) and the Capitol. The nation is run by President Snow, the cruel dictator. Within the book, no other places are mentioned aside from Panem, so it could very well be the last place on Earth with inhabitants. Also, the size of Panem is considerably smaller than North America truly is, for massive parts have been swallowed by high water levels. Many think that Panem is actually what the United States will become in 30-40 years. Scary, huh?