The problem is that as a country it has been difficult to take the adjustment measures, but with or without a loan agreement, they must come, said Shirley Saborío, Executive Vice President of the Council for the Promotion of Competitiveness.
QCOSTARICA – On Monday, January 11, the central government began negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) without a plan B to address the government’s financing, despite the fact that at this time there is no guarantee of success.
“The problem is that as a country it has been difficult to take the adjustment measures, but with or without a loan agreement, they must be made,” said Shirley Saborío, Executive Vice President of the Council for the Promotion of Competitiveness.
This is even more noticeable if one considers that Elián Villegas himself, Minister of Finance, no longer sees the placement of Eurobonds as “essential” this year.
The dangers for the country in case the negotiations are not fruitful are multiple, including the drop in risk ratings, loss of competitiveness for investors, and the risk of default.
On the other hand, the exchange rate is another of the main problems, since it would skyrocket, at the same time that the Central Bank would be pressured to use its monetary reserves, as it did last year for more than US$1 billion dollars to maintain its stability.
Then there are interest rates. Costa Rica’s debt would be increasingly expensive, as it is forced to go exclusively to the local market to access credit, regardless of the fact that the rates are higher than in the foreign market.
This, without neglecting that the expiration dates are usually shorter in the domestic market. In November, 12.1% of the domestic debt had to be paid in less than a year, while only 1.1% was the case in the foreign market.
What to do?
If the negotiation with the IMF falls, is there a plan B? This is the opinion of experts.
Gerardo Corrales, Economist at Economía Hoy: There is no plan B, it would be to flood the domestic market that would skyrocket rates and, furthermore, not signing with the IMF would precipitate capital outflows, taking the exchange rate through the roof.
Melanie Jimenez, Economic Analyst at Cefsa: The Government would have a difficult situation obtaining funds, before which it could resort to options such as swaps or renegotiating the debt, but if a good adjustment is proposed, the confidence of the agencies can even be improved. This would be a complicated scenario, but not impossible.
Shirley Saborío Executive Vice President, Council for the Promotion of Competitiveness: Negotiating with the IMF is an option, and perhaps the best one now; But the important thing is the structural reforms that we as a country take to reduce the problem and ensure that it does not happen again.
Daniel Suchar, Independent Economic analyst: Changes must be made, even if the IMF says there is no agreement; that is, the public employment law, sale of assets, among others, are measures that must be taken.
The IMF deal
The talks with the International Monetary Fund intend to conclude with the acceptance of a loan for US$1.75 billion to help clean up the country’s finances.
This Monday an IMF team began its mission virtually with economic authorities, legislators, private sector organizations, civil society, and academics, trying to find out the actions that will be needed to ensure financial sustainability in the medium and long term.
The main expectation is to generate a minimum primary balance of 1% of GDP in 2023, in order to reverse the growing trend of debt.
However, doubts abound the talks, such as the contradictions in the government’s discourse and the lack of clarity in the measures to be discussed.
This is because legislators warn that both President Carlos Alvarado, as well as Ministers Geannina Dinarte and Pilar Garrido, had advanced the intention of increasing the VAT rate by 1% or assessing financial transactions.
However, just 24 hours after the ministers raised it with the legislators, Elián Villegas, the finance minister, denied that these measures were being considered.
Another issue that generates uncertainty is what will be the position of the IMF officials on the proposals made by the country?
Q24N — As one of the host countries for the 2026 World Cup, Mexico has not been immune to problems and protests leading up to the start of the competition, which kicked off in the Mexican capital on June 11.
Various social movements, including teachers, families of some of the more than 130,000 missing persons, and other social causes, have mobilized to protest just days before the World Cup.
According to the Associated Press (AP), the National Coordinator of Education Workers (CNTE) has held several demonstrations in Mexico City in recent days, demanding better working conditions.
The protests resulted in the toppling of soccer player figures that had been placed around the city to celebrate the World Cup, while another demonstration brought traffic to a standstill by playing a soccer match on one of the capital’s main avenues.
Meanwhile, the families of the disappeared have plastered their faces all over the city and painted graffiti demanding answers from authorities, calling Mexico “champion of disappearances.”
Another cause for concern among many Mexican businesses is the threat of potential fines for rebroadcasting World Cup matches without the proper permits.
In Mexico, the Televisa network acquired the broadcasting rights for the World Cup, so businesses must contact the company through its subsidiaries Izzi Negocios or Sky Business to obtain a commercial permit.
The argument is that licenses for platforms and other broadcasting media are private, so showing them to the public in bars and restaurants could result in sanctions from the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (IMPI).
“If they want, we’ll leave Mexico so they can have their World Cup,” says one comment from Mexicans on social media, where many assert that this will not be a World Cup for the people.
Q24N — Of the three World Cup hosts, perhaps the most relaxed, secure, and least media-driven is Canada. The northernmost nation on the continent will host 13 matches in Toronto and Vancouver, the most notable being two Round of 32 matches and one Quarter-Final.
However, there is a striking absence among the Canadian venues: the city of Montreal. This city is the largest in the province of Quebec and is remembered for hosting the 1976 Olympic Games, among other major events.
According to Radio Canada International (RCI), the country’s main French-speaking city has still not overcome the “trauma” of the enormous debt left by the 1976 Olympics, the cost of which took 30 years to pay off.
These costs have also drawn criticism in Canada, as it has been estimated that hosting two World Cup venues will cost Canadian taxpayers around US$1 billion.
But Montreal didn’t just consider its finances; it also refused to accept the restrictions FIFA would impose on holding other major events of great importance to the city: the Canadian Formula 1 Grand Prix, the Montreal International Jazz Festival, the Montreal Triathlon, and the Montreal Francos Festival.
The restrictions FIFA sought included a ban on scheduling any activities at the city’s Olympic Stadium between April 25 and June 19. The World Cup venues also could not be used for any other purpose for 23 months prior to the tournament.
Furthermore, FIFA wanted access to Jean-Drapeau Park and Montreal’s Old Port from May 22 to July 17 of this year to organize events.
For all these reasons, Montreal is not hosting any official matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Q REPORTS — Although the legendary Argentine player Diego Maradona once insisted, when speaking of his own mistakes, that “the ball is not stained,” today it is clear that the world is playing its World Cup in the shadow of war, fear, and anger that exists off the field.
This week, the biggest celebration of the world’s most popular sport began in 16 stadiums across Mexico, the United States, and Canada, this time, with 48 national teams hoping to make their mark on the field and bring some joy to the countries they represent.
In a world always in turmoil, it is rare to say that the World Cup has remained untouched by conflicts between nations and the international politics that are played out daily for purposes far less noble than those that sustain a sport.
It is impossible to forget, then, that while hosting a World Cup, the United States is fueling an armed conflict in Iran, a country that nearly withdrew from the competition (despite being among the top-ranked teams) after bombings on its territory and the deaths of several government leaders.
Before even starting to follow the game’s scores, the world’s attention is focused on the fluctuating prices of oil, directly affected by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, where US military power seems to have reached another impasse.
Under these circumstances, including President Donald Trump’s threat to destroy “an entire civilization,” the Iranian team agreed to remain in the World Cup despite the far from hospitable treatment they received from the US host.
Although the United States, as host of a World Cup, must commit to FIFA to provide the necessary visa assistance to delegations, the entry permits for the Iranian team were only ready last Friday, a week before the tournament began.
Furthermore, the permission to enter the United States comes with the restriction that the Iranian players and the entire delegation must enter and leave the country on the same day as their scheduled match.
Therefore, the Iranian national team will have to travel to Los Angeles to play against New Zealand on June 16 and against Belgium on June 21, while their group stage will conclude in Seattle on June 28 against Egypt.
Given this unprecedented situation in World Cup history, the Iranians will have to travel to and from Tijuana, Mexico, where FIFA authorized them to relocate their training camp after Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum agreed to host them in her country.
The US State Department told the BBC that it had granted the necessary visas for Iran to participate in the tournament, but added that it would not allow the team to “abuse this system to smuggle terrorists into the US under false pretenses,” according to the British media outlet.
“(Visitors) are at risk of encountering disturbing human rights abuses, particularly those stemming from deadly and abusive US immigration policies,” Amnesty International.
As if the restrictions on the Iranian national team weren’t enough, its fans will also suffer the consequences of Trump’s foreign policy. The Iranian Football Federation denounced FIFA for canceling the 8% quota of tickets to its team’s games, earmarked for Iranian fans, without any explanation as of this writing.
Despite all these problems, which must undoubtedly be a major headache for FIFA, the organization’s president, Gianni Infantino, presented President Trump with the first-ever FIFA Peace Prize in December 2025 for his “extraordinary actions to promote peace.”
No Visa
But the Iranian team wasn’t the only one to suffer due to immigration issues. The Democratic Republic of Congo’s national team also had to postpone its arrival at the World Cup venue and complete a 21-day quarantine in Belgium before traveling to the United States and Canada, due to an Ebola outbreak in that African country.
However, the restrictions also affected many Congolese fans who dreamed of witnessing their national team’s first World Cup appearance. Despite having purchased tickets, they were denied visas, according to several international media outlets.
An analysis by the BBC World Service determined that a quarter of the countries participating in this World Cup in North America face travel bans or significant obstacles to obtaining entry permits.
Countries such as Haiti, Iran, Senegal, and the Ivory Coast have visa bans and restrictions imposed by the Trump administration, making it a real ordeal for citizens of these countries to travel to this World Cup.
But perhaps the most striking case is that of Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, who, despite traveling with a valid visa and a diplomatic passport, was rejected by US authorities at Miami International Airport and deported to Turkey.
Abdulkadir Artan was set to become his country’s first representative at a FIFA World Cup, but, according to international media, US immigration authorities cited security screening concerns. FIFA responded that it has no control over the immigration decisions of host countries.
Low Expectations and High Prices
Immigration restrictions and Trump’s policies have not gone unnoticed by the global tourism industry, and just days before the World Cup began, it was revealed that the number of visitors to the United States had fallen significantly.
According to data from the US National Travel and Tourism Office released on May 26, the number of visitors to the US fell by 5.5% in 2025 compared to the previous year.
This means that 4 million fewer people visited the US, and total tourist spending dropped by UA$8 billion. The World Cup has not escaped this reality.
The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) published a report in which 80% of hoteliers stated that World Cup bookings were below initial projections, and 60% of them cited both immigration restrictions and geopolitical conflicts as the cause of this decline.
Cities like Kansas City are reporting up to 90% fewer bookings than expected, while in San Francisco, Seattle, Philadelphia, and Boston, bookings have fallen 70% short of expectations.
Another factor criticized at this World Cup is the high price of tickets to matches, which, according to The Economist, start at an average of US$200 for the group stage, double the price for Qatar 2022.
From then on, prices climb to over US$500, and on some resale sites, tickets for the World Cup final were offered for over US$2 million.
This prompted the attorneys general of New York and New Jersey to announce in late May, according to Agence France-Presse (AFP), the opening of an investigation into FIFA’s ticketing practices for the World Cup.
The attorneys general of both states are requesting information from FIFA regarding ticket sales, particularly for the eight matches scheduled at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, near New York, including the final on July 19.
Attorneys general in California and Texas have also announced investigations into this matter.
Fears over ICE
Another source of fear for those planning to visit the U.S. during this World Cup has been the aggressive deportation policy and the interventions in various states by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, known as ICE.
Amnesty International issued a report earlier this year warning that fans attending this World Cup “risk encountering disturbing human rights abuses, particularly those stemming from deadly and abusive U.S. immigration policies.”
Amnesty International also noted that “severe restrictions on freedom of expression and peaceful protest threaten the ‘safe, welcoming, and inclusive’ tournament promised by FIFA.”
“Under President Trump, the United States—where three-quarters of the World Cup matches are being played—is facing a human rights emergency characterized by discriminatory immigration policies and arbitrary mass detentions carried out by masked and armed agents of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and other agencies,” the organization said in a statement.
“The US government has deported more than 500,000 people from the United States by 2025. This figure is more than six times the number of people who will attend the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey,” said Steve Cockburn, Amnesty International’s Director of Economic and Social Justice.
Despite assurances from ICE Director Tom Homan that operations would focus on World Cup security rather than raids, media outlets targeting the Latino community in the United States, such as Univision, report that fear persists among migrants in locations like Los Angeles and Florida.
Q COSTARICA — World Cup fans in Costa Rica will have free and paid options to follow all 104 matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup hosted in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
The tournament, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches, can be followed in Costa Rica on free-to-air television, cable, digital apps, and radio, depending on the type of coverage each viewer prefers.
To watch the entire World Cup 2026 in Costa Rica, you will need a paid subscription to Tigo Sports or the streaming platform TDMAX (the Teletica app in partnership with FOX+), which broadcasts all 104 matches.
The approximate cost of TDMAX is around ¢5,500 per month, equivalent to about $11. This alternative is emerging as one of the most economical options for those who do not wish to subscribe to a traditional cable television package.
Telecable customers can also watch the tournament through T-Play, provided they have an active plan with the operator. This platform allows viewers to watch the programming on digital television or mobile devices.
On cable television, prices will depend on the provider and the package subscribed to. As a reference, plans with World Cup coverage can start at around ¢21,250 on Kölbi TV Digital, ¢21,515 on Tigo, ¢25,990 on Telecable, and ¢33,995 on Metrocom.
For free viewing, Teletica Canal 7 is broadcasting 32 selected matches, including the opening game, key stages, and the final.
Local radio stations like Teletica Radio 91.5 FM, Columbia 98.7 FM, and Monumental 93.5 FM will provide continuous play-by-play broadcasts.
Q COSTARICA — Starting Thursday and for just over a month, workers around the world will be more distracted than usual thanks to the FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada.
Like the rest of the soccer-mad world, Costa Rica will be no exception, and although the national team won’t be participating, it’s clear that productivity is at risk of taking a significant hit in the coming weeks.
That’s why several human resources experts are offering specific recommendations so that workers can enjoy the football festivities without neglecting their duties.
At the same time, legal experts warn that the World Cup can also lead to dismissals without employer liability, especially in cases of unjustified absences, tardiness, misuse of electronic devices, and abandonment of work.
In these cases, these are cumulative actions that can lead the company to take action and even demand accountability for absences due to illness or injury.
In any case, a more flexible approach could yield positive results for both parties.
“It’s better to manage the World Cup proactively and strategically than to try to prohibit it. Ultimately, employees will always try to watch the matches somehow, potentially leading to unauthorized viewing or a significant and direct impact on their work rhythm,” said Amanda Arias Hernández, Master in Human Talent Management, university professor, and consultant at 360 Actualización.
The specialist emphasizes that the World Cup can become an excellent opportunity to maintain productivity while fostering a different, more participatory, and motivating work environment.
Companies can leverage this context to strengthen employee integration, sense of belonging, and commitment, “provided there are clear rules and a balance between flexibility and meeting work objectives,” she added.
Offering flexibility bonuses for employees who adequately fulfill their assigned tasks, leveraging the World Cup as a motivational factor through internal activities such as pools, contests, trivia, rallies, prize draws, and other events, as well as considering temporary adjustments to work schedules or breaks within a “valid and realistic” framework, are some of the recommendations.
Meanwhile, Doris Peters, president of DPA, a human resources management company, emphasized the importance of establishing clear rules on this matter, as productivity cannot be allowed to decline.
In this regard, the specialist pointed out that Costa Rica’s absence from the World Cup will likely result in less enthusiasm compared to the past; however, she acknowledged that “there are always fans.”
“Productivity cannot decrease. Special leave or vacation days can be granted to those who request them,” she added.
Furthermore, Peters outlined other strategies to allow employees who enjoy soccer to fulfill their duties while staying informed about the World Cup.
“There are several things that can be done. For example, games can be recorded and shown during lunch breaks, at least the summaries. Using creativity, results can be displayed on a screen or whiteboard. Shifts can also be changed when feasible, or the workday can be made more flexible in some way, depending on the industry and position,” the expert added.
Finally, in cases where an employee is more distracted than usual, it’s best for them to request vacation or unpaid leave.
2014 World Cup. Twelve years ago, back in 2014, managed by Jorge Luis Pinto, Costa Rica achieved its best-ever World Cup result, officially ranking 8th in the world.
That tournament saw Costa Rica shock everyone by topping Group D with these results:
A 3-1 win over Uruguay
A 1-0 victory against Italy
A goalless draw with England
The “Sele,” Costa Rica’s national team, then advanced to the round of 16, where they faced Greece. Despite being down to 10 players, Costa Rica held Greece to a 1-1 draw, pushed the game into extra time, and then triumphed 5-3 in a gripping penalty shootout, thanks to a crucial save by goalkeeper Keylor Navas.
In the quarter-finals, they battled the Netherlands for 120 intense minutes. The match ended 0-0, but Costa Rica’s run came to an end after a heartbreaking 4-3 loss in the penalty shootout.
Q COSTARICA — Costa Rican President Laura Fernández launched harsh criticism against the judiciary during her weekly press conference on Wednesday, expressing her concern over the recent release of dangerous criminals and the lack of effective punishments for those who commit serious crimes in the country.
In her remarks, Fernández referred to the case of three members of the criminal gang “Los Marujas” in Cartago, who, despite having been arrested by the Organismo de Investigacíon Judicial (OIJ) with hundreds of doses of drugs, weapons, and criminal records, were released by Judge Ana Laura García Delgado.
“With how difficult it is to catch them, how difficult it is to get them sentenced, and then they have the audacity to let them go free!” Fernández emphasized that this gang has been operating in the province for over twenty years, responsible for dozens of violent incidents.
The president also highlighted the national concern regarding impunity for crimes committed in prisons.
She mentioned that although introducing cell phones into prisons is a punishable offense, the Attorney General’s Office has opted to impose administrative sanctions, which, according to Fernández, send the wrong message to society and encourage the continuation of criminal practices from within prisons.
Laura Fernández directly addressed the highest authorities of the Judiciary: “Ms. Patricia Solano (president of the Court), you are failing this country. Mr. Rolando Aguirre, the president of the Judiciary, you are failing Costa Rica, and I have to tell you this because I am the elected representative of the people. Both of you should seriously consider stepping aside, give the position to someone with fresh blood who can take the reins of the Judiciary.”
The president emphasized that this is not a personal attack, but rather a warning about a situation she considers serious for public safety.
Fernández demanded answers regarding the reasons behind the release of criminals and questioned whether judges are acting under pressure, threats, or corruption.
“This nation deserves for the Judiciary to tell us if the judges who are releasing criminals are doing so because they were bribed, because they were threatened, or both. It’s unacceptable that they’re released day after day and no one gives this country an answer, because your salaries and mine are also paid by the people of Costa Rica,” she stated during the conference.
The president made a strong appeal to the Legislative Assembly controlled by the ruling party to exercise its political oversight function: “I call on the Legislative Assembly, which is responsible for exercising parliamentary political control over the supreme powers. They should already be holding the president of the Judiciary, Magistrate Solano, and these prosecutors accountable, as they are constantly releasing high-profile criminals in the country,” she stated during her weekly press conference.
Fernández concluded her remarks by reiterating the need for the country to act decisively: “We still have time to prevent Costa Rica from falling off a cliff.”
Her appeal seeks to ensure that the various institutions assume the responsibility of guaranteeing justice and security for citizens amidst a crisis that has generated widespread public alarm.
Q COSTARICA — Costa Rica President Laura Fernández announced that the government will present a bill on Monday requiring inmates to work.
The initiative is part of a package of proposals on citizen security that will be announced next Monday.
Previously, during a televised address, the government announced that Gerald Campos, Minister of Security, and other high-ranking officials traveled to El Salvador to learn about the work model in that country, where prisoners are responsible for making uniforms and boots for the police, as well as desks for schoolchildren.
There are multiple initiatives in the legislative process aimed at regulating and requiring work or educational activities in prisons, although they face significant legal challenges:
Bill 24.612 (Social Adaptation Model): Proposes reforming the General Directorate of Social Adaptation so that the prison population must study, work, or combine both activities on a mandatory basis to access prison benefits.
Bill 24.614 (Support and Maintenance): Proposes that inmates generate income to cover their debts, child support payments, personal expenses, and 40% of their own prison stay, thus reducing public spending financed by taxpayers.
Authorized Work: Legislative committees have approved reforms that allow inmates to perform internal prison construction work and manufacture security equipment.
Despite the government’s political support, the bills have lost momentum and face likely shelving in the Legislative Assembly due to significant constitutional concerns, such as violation of international treaties and lack of a salary structure.
For example, the International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention 29 on forced labour, which dates from 1930, “states that it is an obligation to abolish the employment of forced or compulsory labour in all its forms,” which it defines as “all work or service exacted from any individual under the menace of any penalty and for which the said individual has not offered himself voluntarily.”
In addition, the Constitutional Court in 1996 determined that work in penitentiary centers “has a rehabilitative purpose” and that “it should tend to resemble as closely as possible the work that people do in freedom.”
Among the other proposals expected on Monday is a plan to bring owners of land with clandestine airstrips to justice, as well as harsher penalties for criminal networks.
Turistas recorren las calles el 6 de mayo de 2023, en La Habana (Cuba).EFE/ Ernesto Mastrascusa
Q24N (EFE) The U.S. ended last Friday, June 5, 2026, the grace period granted to foreign companies with a presence in Cuba to sever ties with the island before facing reprisals from Washington.
This measure is part of the ongoing pressure on Havana, which targeted its leader, Miguel Díaz-Canel, and the son of Raúl Castro, Alejandro Castro Espín, with further sanctions.
U.S. President Donald Trump issued an executive order on May 1 against foreign entities operating in vital sectors such as energy, defense, mining, and financial services in the Caribbean nation, after which his administration set a June 5 deadline for these entities to dissolve their ties.
In this latest escalation of the campaign to cripple a Cuba already in crisis, Trump warned those who maintain business relationships with the Cuban government and its military-run conglomerate, GAESA—sanctioned by Washington—that they risk having their assets frozen in the United States.
The measure also includes economic sanctions and a ban on entry to the United States for foreign nationals who have worked or currently work for Cuban government entities, are involved in human rights violations, or are involved in acts of corruption.
From the island, these actions have been labeled “illegal and abusive.” They come on top of the oil embargo imposed by the Republican administration after the arrest of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and the criminal charges against Cuban leader Raúl Castro for the downing of Cuban-American exile planes in 1996.
One day before the sanctions on entities were set to expire, the Treasury Department imposed financial sanctions on Thursday on President Díaz-Canel, several of his relatives, one of Castro’s sons, as well as the Cuban Ministry of the Armed Forces and the Committees for the Defense of the Revolution (CDR).
The first to break with Havana
US pressure on Cuba has already triggered an exodus of international companies with decades of presence on the island.
The first to leave the country were a number of airlines that, in addition to the drop in demand due to geopolitical uncertainty, had to contend with a lack of jet fuel at Cuban airports because of the US oil embargo.
Since February, the four Canadian and two Russian airlines that served Cuba, heavily dependent on tourism, have suspended their routes to the island. They were later joined by major carriers such as Air France, Turkish Airlines, and Iberia.
Shortly afterward, the two main shipping companies operating in Cuba, the French CMA CGM and the German Hapag-Lloyd, announced they were ceasing to accept new bookings for shipments to or from the island.
Moves to avoid reprisals
Just days after Trump signed his new executive order, the Canadian mining company Sherritt, with the largest foreign investment on the island, immediately suspended its direct involvement in nickel and cobalt mining.
With the deadline for severing ties with Cuba about to expire, the four largest foreign hotel chains in the country made their move. The Spanish chains Meliá and Iberostar ceased operations at all properties owned by the Cuban military, while the Canadian chain Blue Diamond and the Indonesian chain Archipelago completely shut down their operations on the island.
The latest move to avoid sanctions came from a bank, whose name has not been released, which was the only one managing Visa and Mastercard payment platform transactions with Cuba, thus closing off a crucial revenue stream in the Caribbean nation.
Escalation of a long-standing tension
Although the sanctions are focused on foreign entities operating in Cuba, both individually and in joint ventures with the Cuban government, in the energy, defense, finance, mining, and security sectors, the ambiguous language of the order opens the door to sanctions against companies with no physical presence on the island.
Experts highlight its deterrent purpose against those who have interacted or may interact with the Cuban government, amidst the escalating antagonistic rhetoric between two bitter enemies who, after the brief period of rapprochement between 2014 and 2017, have intensified their mutual attacks, at least publicly.
Washington and Havana have established diplomatic, military, and intelligence contacts, about which few details have been made public.
Trump has threatened to seize control of the island one way or another, although he has also stated that they are willing to engage in dialogue with a Cuba on the verge of collapse.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged this week that a change in leadership in the country is necessary for the profound transformations demanded by the US to be implemented, something the Cuban government rejects, warning that it will not negotiate its sovereignty.
Q COSTARICA — The election of Costa Rican diplomat Lina Ajoy as the new Secretary General of the Sistema de la Integración Centroamericana (SICA)—Central American Integration System , represents another setback for the dictatorship of Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo, which for months claimed the position as a supposed “right” of Nicaragua and even warned of possible consequences if its candidates continued to be rejected.
The decision is particularly significant for Nicaragua because it comes after an escalation of tensions between Nicaragua and several countries in the region over control of the SICA General Secretariat, a key body for Central American integration.
In recent weeks, the Ortega-Murillo regime went so far as to denounce an alleged “illegal blockade” against Nicaragua and increased political pressure on the region’s governments to support its candidates.
The regime’s threats even fueled speculation about Nicaragua’s potential withdrawal from the regional body, a possibility that would further isolate a government already facing accusations of human rights violations, international sanctions, and deteriorating relations with various democratic countries.
On Wednesday, Costa Rican diplomat Lina Ajoy was elected for the 2026-2030 term starting on August 9 2026, during an extraordinary virtual meeting of SICA heads of state and government, ending a prolonged vacancy that had persisted since November 2023, when Nicaraguan Werner Vargas, who held the position for the 2022-2026 term, resigned.
A blow to Ortega and Murillo’s aspirations
The election represents a diplomatic defeat for the regime of Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo, which for months insisted that the SICA General Secretariat should remain in Nicaragua’s hands.
On May 26, the Nicaraguan government publicly claimed its supposed “right” to occupy the position and recalled that it had submitted three different lists, made up of nine candidates, to assume the leadership of the organization.
However, none of the proposals achieved consensus among the member countries.
At that time, Managua accused the other governments of maintaining an “unjustified, unjustifiable, illegal, and illegitimate blockade” against Nicaragua.
The selection of a candidate backed by Costa Rica also comes amid particularly strained relations between Costa Rica and Nicaragua.
In recent months, both governments have exchanged criticisms regarding regional leadership, democracy, and compliance with commitments made within the SICA.
Although the regime has not officially announced a withdrawal from SICA, several analysts believe that the growing confrontation with other member states could lead Managua to further harden its stance toward the organization.
A potential withdrawal would represent a new episode of isolation for Nicaragua, which in recent years has also withdrawn from various international mechanisms or severed relations with organizations and countries that question its record on human rights and democracy.
Q COSTARICA — Ambassador Lina Eugenia Ajoy Rojas was elected as the first Costa Rican and the second woman in history to assume the General Secretariat of the Central American Integration System (SICA), marking a precedent in the history of regional integration.
Ajoy’s appointment was ratified during an extraordinary meeting of heads of state and government, in which representatives from all member countries of the organization participated.
The appointment follows a selection process in which the Government of Costa Rica presented a shortlist of three professionals who met the requirements agreed upon by the member states.
Lina Ajoy’s term will begin on August 9, 2026, and will extend until 2030. She will lead an institution that promotes political, economic, social, and cultural integration among the countries of Central America. The organization’s main objective is to strengthen cooperation and sustainable development in the region, facilitating joint agreements and common policies in areas such as security, trade, the environment, and human rights.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs congratulated Ajoy on the appointment and reaffirmed its confidence that the new Secretary General will ensure effective and transparent management aligned with the priorities of the regional agenda. According to the ministry, “it is believed that Ajoy’s leadership will strengthen the system’s capacity to respond to the challenges shared by the region.”
Lina Ajoy has 27 years of experience in the Costa Rican Diplomatic Service. She is a career ambassador, lawyer, and notary, and has training in mediation and cooperation. She is also fluent in English and Italian, which allows her to interact in high-level international settings.
Among her most recent experiences, she served as ambassador to El Salvador, where she also represented Costa Rica before the SICA, and to Belize. She has also held diplomatic posts in Canada and Nicaragua.
The appointment was ratified on Wednesday during a virtual session attended by Costa Rica’s First Vice President, Francisco Gamboa; Guatemala’s President Bernardo Arévalo; Honduras’ President Nasry Asfura; and the president of the Dominican Republic, Luis Abinader. Also present were El Salvador’s Vice President, Felix Ulloa; Nicaragua’s Co-Ministers Denis Moncada and Valdrack Jaentschke; and the Deputy Foreign Ministers of Belize, Amalia Mai, and Panama, Carlos Hoyos.
The Central American Integration System, founded in 1991, has as its fundamental mission to consolidate regional integration in order to achieve peace, freedom, democracy, and development. The organization comprises eight member states: Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama, and the Dominican Republic. Its main functions include fostering policy harmonization, facilitating intraregional trade, promoting democratic security, and encouraging technical and financial cooperation among member countries.
The appointment of Lina Ajoy as Secretary General of SICA represents a milestone for Costa Rican and regional diplomacy.
The support of the Heads of State and Government demonstrates the importance that member countries place on the continuity and strengthening of the Central American integration process.
The cycle that now begins will be marked by the challenges arising from the region’s political, economic, and social context, as well as by expectations surrounding management focused on efficiency, transparency, and cooperation.
Q COSTARICA — Costa Rica’s Policia de Fronteras (Border Police) seized a shipment of allegedly smuggled World Cup postcards valued at nearly 11 million colones (US$23,900) in Golfito, Southern Zone of Costa Rica.
The operation was carried out as part of ongoing efforts to combat smuggling and protect the national economy, according to police authorities.
The seizure occurred when officers stationed at the Kilometer 35 checkpoint in Guaycará, Golfito, intercepted a vehicle coming from the border with Panama. The car was driven by a man surnamed Granados, who was transporting a total of 161 boxes of World Cup postcards.
When asked for documentation to prove the purchase and legality of the merchandise, the driver stated he had no proof of payment of the corresponding taxes, raising suspicions about the origin and transit of the goods.
Given the lack of the legally required documentation, the Border Police coordinated with the Policía de Control Fiscal (PCD) —Tax Control Police, who arrived at the scene. Tax officials seized the 161 boxes of postcards. Authorities emphasized that the seizure of these types of products aims to prevent tax evasion, protect state revenue, and safeguard legitimate businesses from the unfair competition generated by smuggling.
The seized merchandise consists of products of high commercial interest, particularly due to their connection to the World Cup, an event that generates significant demand among collectors and fans.
Authorities reiterated that product smuggling, in addition to affecting tax revenue, can pose a risk to consumers, who often purchase merchandise without guarantees or legal backing.
As for the driver, the case has been turned over to the appropriate authorities, who will determine the administrative and legal sanctions in accordance with Costa Rican law. The Border Police, for their part, called on citizens to report any suspicious activity that may be linked to smuggling or the sale of products without legal documentation.
The seizure of the World Cup postcards highlights the challenges authorities face in combating illegal trade and tax evasion in border areas, especially in the Southern Zone of the country.
Q COSTARICA — The operator of Juan Santamaría International Airport, or San José airport (SJO), presented its 2025 Sustainability Report, a document that compiles the main advances achieved during the past year in governance, environmental performance, and social development, reaffirming its commitment to responsible management.
During 2025, Costa Rica’s main international airport handled more than 6.4 million passengers, the highest number ever recorded, consolidating its role as the country’s main gateway and a key driver of connectivity, tourism, and economic development in Costa Rica.
In the area of governance, AERIS executed an airport investment of US$28.3 million, of which US$23.1 million corresponded to projects associated with the airport’s Master Plan. Additionally, the operator strengthened its financial performance during 2025 and contributed more than US$62 million to the Costa Rican government.
“At AERIS, we understand sustainability as a way of managing the airport responsibly, generating value for people, communities, the country, and future generations. Each advance we present in this report reflects a long-term vision that seeks to strengthen connectivity, competitiveness, and the sustainable development of Costa Rica,” stated Ricardo Hernández, CEO of AERIS.
The results achieved in 2025 were also reflected in the international recognition received by Juan Santamaría International Airport, which for the second consecutive year won the award for Best Airport in Latin America and the Caribbean in the 5 to 15 million passenger category, as well as Level 5 Accreditation in Customer Experience from the Airports Council International (ACI), the highest distinction in passenger experience.
With the publication of this report, AERIS reaffirms its commitment to continue strengthening transparent, innovative and sustainable airport management, aimed at generating value for Costa Rica and for all actors that are part of the airport ecosystem.
Q COSTARICA — Sarton Group, the IKEA brand’s franchisee for Costa Rica, is advancing in talent acquisition and a phased entry model in which remote sales will be the first point of contact with Costa Rican households.
IKEA, one of the world’s leading brands in furniture and home furnishings, continues to expand in Costa Rica.
Talent acquisition is central to this stage. The addition of new talent is an essential step in building a strong, diverse organization aligned with IKEA’s values, with capabilities that will support the project’s development in areas such as logistics, sales, customer service, communications, interior design, operations, IT, and human resources.
Those interested in learning about the professional opportunities that will be available and finding out more about working with IKEA in Costa Rica can visit www.ikea.cr, where they will find all the information about the application process and how to apply.
The website will also be a great place to learn more about the brand, discover its home furnishings offerings, and explore inspirational content designed to bring IKEA closer to people throughout Costa Rica.
Tony Tavira, Retail Manager of Sarton Group, stated:
“Costa Rica represents a very important market in our development in the region, and we want to contribute to creating a better everyday life for most people. To achieve this, it will be essential to have teams that share our vision and help bring the IKEA brand to life in this new market.
That’s why, at this stage, talent acquisition is central. We are building a long-term project, and it will be our future employees who make IKEA’s arrival possible and bring our offering to Costa Rican homes. At the same time, we continue to move forward to more clearly demonstrate how the brand will develop, with the ambition of building an accessible, relevant, and lasting presence for most people.”
The arrival of the IKEA brand in Costa Rica is being built progressively, through an omnichannel model designed to make accessing the brand clear, convenient, and easy for customers. The IKEA website and e-commerce platform will be the first point of contact with IKEA, allowing customers to discover the product range, explore a selection of the assortment, and purchase online before future physical touchpoints complete the brand experience.
This model will combine digital convenience, service, and an increasingly comprehensive customer experience. IKEA is also preparing to serve customers nationwide, reinforcing its ambition to reach a growing number of homes in Costa Rica.
IKEA is also gaining increasing visibility in Costa Rica, allowing more people to learn about the brand, its purpose, and its vision for home living. The brand will arrive with well-designed, functional, and affordable solutions, in an experience that seeks to combine inspiration, accessibility, trust, and service.
In this context, Dennis Balslev, Retail Concept Manager of Inter IKEA Group, stated:
“Welcoming Costa Rica and Panama to the IKEA family marks an important milestone in our commitment to making affordable, functional, and well-designed home furnishings solutions accessible to more people in the Americas. Together with our retail partner, Sarton Group, we are demonstrating our commitment to convenience and innovation by allowing customers to explore and purchase a selection of our assortment online before our physical stores open. We look forward to building strong relationships with customers, suppliers, and partners to create a better everyday life at home for more people in Costa Rica and Panama.”
This is the first step in a gradual process to expand IKEA’s presence in the country.
Q COSTARICA — Air connectivity between New York and Guanacaste takes another step forward with the addition of a Delta Airlines route.
Guanacaste Airport, in Liberia (LIR), a member of the VINCI Airports network, and the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) announced the new service to begin on December 19 and will run until April 10, 2027.
The service will operate weekly on Saturdays using an Airbus A321neo with a capacity of 194 passengers.
“Without a doubt, this is further proof of how strong Costa Rica is as a destination in the plans of airlines, and the confidence they have in our country at a time when every move in the aviation sector is being analyzed based on its profitability,” said Marcos Borges, President of the ICT.
New York City joins the direct routes already operated by Delta, which include Atlanta, Boston, Minneapolis, and Detroit, further strengthening its presence in the destination.
“We are pleased to announce this new service, which expands travel options for visitors from the New York metropolitan area, solidifying its position as the origin with the largest number of direct flights to Guanacaste Airport,” stated César Jaramillo, General Manager of Guanacaste Airport.
He added that this route strengthens the airport’s role as a tourist gateway.
“This reinforces our position as a strategic entry point for international tourism from a key market, thus contributing to the tourism and economic development of the Guanacaste region,” he concluded.
Q COSTARICA — To protect jobs and enable more businesses to thrive, the Consejo de Promoción de la Competitividad (CPC) — Competitiveness Promotion Council, on Monday, during the I Summit Nacional de Competitividad (1st National Competitiveness Summit), proposed a gradual reduction of social security contributions.
These contributions specifically address social security obligations unrelated to the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS), which currently increases the cost of formal employment by 7.25 percentage points.
This means Costa Rican businesses pay twice the rate required by OECD countries.
“Costa Rica maintains one of the highest employer contribution structures in the region. Currently, employer contributions amount to 26.83% of gross salary, a percentage that directly impacts the cost of formal employment and is among the factors companies consider when investing, expanding, or creating new jobs,” the CPCl stated.
These are social security contributions that currently fund the Fondo de Desarrollo Social y Asignaciones Familiares (FODESAF) —Social Development and Family Allowances Fund, the Instituto Nacional de Aprendizaje (INA) — National Learning Institute, the Instituto Mixto de Ayuda Social (IMAS) — Joint Institute for Social Assistance, and the Banco Popular y de Desarrollo Comunal — the Banco Popular.
The idea is to gradually transfer this contribution to the State.
“The cost of formalizing employment determines how many people are included or excluded from social protection. Reducing this cost doesn’t represent a benefit for companies, but rather the most direct way for more people—especially women and young people—to access formal, protected, and quality employment, without weakening the funding of social programs,” explained Rodrigo Cubero, former president of the Central Bank of Costa Rica and coordinator of the working group on employer contributions at the CPC.
Given this situation, the Competitiveness Promotion Council has proposed the following alternatives:
Immediate universal reduction: Reduce the 7.25 percentage point contribution for all companies starting in the first year of implementation.
Universal phase-in reduction: Reduce the 7.25 percentage point rate for all businesses gradually over a five-year period.
Immediate phase-out reduction: Reduce the 7.25 percentage point rate for micro and small businesses, and apply smaller reductions to medium and large businesses.
Phase-out reduction: The reduction would be greater for smaller businesses and would be applied gradually over a five-year period.
The CPC indicated that the proposal also explores options for fiscally offsetting any potential reduction in these costs, with the goal of not underfunding social programs.
Cubero noted that reducing the cost of formalization could expand access to sheltered employment.
Q COSTARICA — San José will once again be the meeting point for the Pride March, an event that will bring together the LGBTI+ community and allies under the slogan “Pride Remains.”
The march will take place on Sunday, June 28, starting at noon, beginning at the León Cortés Statue on the west side and conclude in the heart of the city, at Plaza de la Democracia, where the closing ceremony will be held.
The event will combine culture, entrepreneurship, and community participation in a route through the main streets of the capital.
In addition, the closing ceremony will feature performances by national artists such as David Nick and Jecsinior Jara, as well as several DJs.
As part of the month’s events, the Pride Fair will be held on June 26 and 27 at the Instituto de México in Los Yoses, from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
The fair will bring together community businesses and partners, as well as food stalls, bingo, and various recreational activities for attendees.
The program will also include artistic performances on both days.
It’s a space designed for gathering, visibility, and participation from different sectors of the community.
This year’s theme seeks to highlight the memory, enduring presence, and legacy of those who paved the way in the fight for recognition and visibility.
“Pride is memory,” the organization stated, explaining the campaign’s central message.
The group recalled that many people faced rejection, violence, and discrimination when they chose to live authentically and defend their rights.
“Because we exist, we resist, we endure,” the organization declared as part of this year’s call to action.
They also recognized those who came before them when doing so meant risking their jobs, their families, their safety, and, in some cases, their very lives.
“We feel pride for those who are no longer with us, for those who faced rejection, violence, and discrimination, but who never stopped fighting so that today we can occupy spaces with greater freedom, dignity, and hope,” the organization stated.
The event seeks to remind everyone that the struggle continues as long as there are people who need to be seen, heard, or defended, under a message that summarizes the spirit of the gathering: “Pride Remains.”
Q COSTARICA — Costa Rica’s President, Laura Fernández, proposed that the Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS)—Costa Rican Social Security System—explicitly include “sport” or “exercise” in medical prescriptions, with the goal of strengthening disease prevention and improving the population’s quality of life.
“I am very interested in the CCSS including sports as a prescription in the medical prescriptions they give to patients. Sports not only improve mental health, but also improve coronary heart disease and the degenerative diseases that are causing so much harm to our country,” the president stated.
At the moment, the mechanism to be used is unclear, since doctors currently always encourage patients to be active and exercise.
The proposal was announced during an official visit to the High-Performance Center (CAR) of Liga Deportiva Alajuelense, where Fernández learned about the sports training and development programs promoted by the soccer club.
Highlighting the systemic barriers to exercise, the President has pointed out that many Costa Ricans lack the time due to long commutes and heavy workloads. Consequently, she noted that to truly make this work, it may require workplace accommodations that allow employees time during the day to exercise.
The goal is to promote more active lifestyles and combat cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, and various mental health disorders.
Several international studies have indicated that regular physical activity helps reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases, improve cardiovascular health, and alleviate symptoms associated with anxiety and depression.
Q COSTARICA — It is undeniable that every day traffic chaos gets worse. And with no real solution in sight. One of the main causes are “minor road accidents” with the potential to create massive traffic jams and affect countless drivers.
The good news is that, through the Pacto Amistoso (Friendly agreement), drivers involved in a minor traffic accident can quickly reach an agreement and move the vehicles, according to Ricardo León, head of the Auto Department at the State insurer, the Instituto Nacional de Seguros (INS).
The Amicable Agreement is a legal tool that allows for faster handling of minor accidents, where there are no injuries or serious property damage, thus preventing vehicles from remaining on the road and causing further congestion.
“The Pacto Amistoso is definitely a tool that allows us to clear public roads as soon as possible, so that road users can resume traveling freely in the shortest possible time,” León explained.
“A minor accident can cause traffic jams stretching for several kilometers and significant waiting times, during which most vehicles are wasting fuel and emitting CO2 into the atmosphere. Therefore, an agreement like the Pacto Amistoso is very appropriate, when conditions allow, to resolve these types of traffic situations,” he added.
In addition to reducing traffic jams, this approach allows for a faster response to the incident.
“Furthermore, the response time to the accident is reduced because, as mentioned earlier, there is no need to wait for the traffic officer at the scene,” he noted.
How does the Pacto Amistoso work?
The Pacto Amistoso applies when the drivers involved reach an agreement regarding responsibility for the accident and have the necessary documentation to support what happened, such as photographs, videos, or witness statements.
Additionally, the driver who accepts responsibility must have a valid insurance policy with one of the insurance companies authorized to offer this mechanism.
However, this procedure cannot be used when there are injuries, significant property damage, two-wheeled vehicles—such as motorcycles, bicycles, or mopeds—are involved, or when the collision occurs with a fixed object.
The INS asserts that this tool not only benefits those involved in the accident but also other drivers by helping to maintain traffic flow and reducing the economic and environmental impact associated with long lines of stopped vehicles.
Q COSTARICA — After years of debate, setbacks, and legal arguments, legislators on Monday night approved, in its first reading, a bill that will allow alcoholic beverage companies (i.e., beer companies) to sponsor sporting events and display their logos on the jerseys of soccer teams and other sports.
The plan was introduced in the previous Assembly by then-legislator Daniela Rojas of the PUSC party, and this Monday it received the support of 41 legislators, while 10 deputies opposed it.
However, sponsorship of clubs only applies to teams with members of legal drinking age, meaning that lower leagues in any sport will not be allowed to display advertising for alcoholic beverages.
If the plan receives approval in its second reading and is not challenged by the Constitutional Court (Sala IV), teams like Alajuelense and Saprissa, as well as any other First Division club, will be able to display a beer or liquor brand on their jerseys.
“The purpose is to provide greater clarity in the content of the project and strengthen the mechanisms so that resources reach those who need them more efficiently and effectively,” said Royner Mora, former Minister of Sport and legislator for the ruling party, the Partido Pueblo Soberano (PPSO), referring to a substitute text that is being worked on.
Q COSTARICA — In the last three months, unemployment in Costa Rica showed no significant changes, remaining at 6.9% for the period between February and April, according to the Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Censos (INEC)—National Institute of Statistics and Census.
However, the female employment rate registered a statistically significant decrease compared to the same quarter of the previous year.
“The national employed population was 2.16 million people, comprised of 1.33 million men and 832,000 women. For women, this indicator showed a statistically significant decrease of 52,000 people compared to the same quarter of the previous year,” INEC stated.
Meanwhile, the national net labor force participation rate was 54.0%, while for men it was 65.9% and for women 42.2%.
This indicator showed a reduction of 2.6 percentage points nationally and 3.5 percentage points for women.
The results reflect a stable unemployment rate, although they show lower female participation in the labor market and a reduction in the number of employed women compared to the previous year.
Q COSTARICA — Costa Rica received on Thursday the latest group of 25 deported foreigners from the United States as part of the existing bilateral third-country agreement signed between the two nations in March 2026.
The group consists of 12 women and 13 men, according to immigration authorities.
Among those received are 11 Colombian citizens, five Brazilians, four Vietnamese, two Bolivians, two Chinese, and one Azerbaijani.
Authorities indicated that all were subjected to checks in national and international systems before entering the country.
The purpose of these checks is to guarantee national security and confirm the identity of each of the individuals transferred.
The bilateral agreeemnt
Under this agreement, Costa Rica has committed to accepting up to 25 deportees per week. This includes both returning Costa Rican nationals and third-country nationals from various regions, including Asia, Africa, and Latin America, who have no prior personal or geographical connection to Costa Rica.
In addition to Costa Ricans, deportees arriving in 2026 have included citizens from China, India, Albania, Cameroon, Morocco, Honduras, Guatemala, Brazil, Kenya, and Russia, among others. The program is financially supported by the United States, which channels funding through the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to cover operational expenses.
Upon landing at San José international airport (SJO), migrants are processed by immigration officials and are provided temporary housing and food for up to seven days. During or immediately after this period, migrants are given three distinct options:
Assisted Voluntary Return: Enrolling in a program to be safely repatriated back to their actual home countries.
Asylum/Refugee Status: Requesting formal protection in Costa Rica if they can demonstrate that their lives are in danger in their native countries.Temporary Humanitarian Status:
Applying for a temporary regularized migration status that allows them to live and move freely within Costa Rica for up to a year.
The current 2026 framework has adjusted to allow migrants full freedom of movement upon arrival to avoid repeating those legal issues, following the highly controversial 2025 pilot operation in which roughly 200 migrants were deported from the U.S. to Costa Rica.
Q COSTARICA — In just a few weeks, we’ll find out whether the state power and telecom utility, the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE), will tear down the historic building that has long been a landmark in La Sabana’s landscape.
ICE president, Marco Acuña, told Telenoticias that the building doesn’t have the structural strength needed to keep staff safe. Because of this, ICE plans to assess the possibility of demolishing the building in the coming weeks.
The building, officially the Jorge Manuel Dengo Obregón Building, is an iconic architectural landmark in San José.
Currently, the 54-year-old building that has served as ICE’s headquarters for decades is completely vacant. All core headquarters operations have permanently moved to the newer Torre Grupo ICE located in Sabana Sur.
According to Acuña, the fate of the building could be to maintain it as is, remodel it, or even demolish it, and a new building could be erected on the site. In either case, the ICE president acknowledges it would involve a multimillion-dollar investment.
If demolished, the high-value property in Sabana Norte could be converted into a new commercial zone or transformed into a complementary facility for the neighboring Estadio Nacional (National Stadium).
“That location could be interesting for other uses, which we are also considering. It could even be an area to complement the National Stadium, a commercial area, etc.,” Acuña told Telenoticias.
Construction began in November 1969, and the building officially opened on January 19, 1973.
Newly inaugurated ICE building in La Sabana, San José, 1973
Designed by architect Rafael Sotela, the 15-story (58-meter) concrete structure was briefly the tallest building in Costa Rica upon its completion.
Originally known simply as the Edificio Central del ICE, it was renamed in 2012 to honor Jorge Manuel Dengo Obregón, the visionary engineer who founded the State institution.
Q COSTARICA — After removing the access gates (agujas) controlling vehicular access, the Municipality of Garabito confirmed that Playa Blanca is now open to the public 24 hours a day.
The municipality emphasizes that it acted in compliance with a court order recognizing the access road as public and not a private access point belonging to Punta Leona Beach Club.
Francisco González, mayor of Garabito, told La Nación that surveillance operations will be carried out to guarantee free transit.
Meanwhile, Punta Leona Beach Club condemned the “arbitrary and disproportionate actions” taken by the Municipality of Garabito on its premises.
It also stated that the municipality damaged infrastructure such as security barriers, the sturdy posts used to control vehicular traffic, a security booth, vehicles, and other items located on private property belonging to several owners and the Club.
“The municipality acted despite the fact that it is a private property with registered cadastral plans in the National Registry, and also despite the fact that the legal status of access via those roads is still being debated in the Administrative Court.
“The actions of the local government demonstrate a clear abuse of authority, causing damage to private property and violence against the people responsible for protecting it. The Municipal Police exceeded their authority, since in addition to damaging the infrastructure, they also assaulted the officials providing access,” said Punta Leona.
The Municipal police operation last week to remove security barriers in Punta Leona ended in a chaotic, and violent fight between police and those against the opening of the beach to the public. The Fuerza Publica (National Police) reported that two people were arrested for assaulting officers during the operation.
While access to Playa Blanca is open, questions have arisen among tourists and visitors is whether anyone can now freely enter, the use of parking, entry times, and what to do if someone tries to block access.
González assured that the beach can be visited by anyone and clarified several practical aspects for those planning a trip there. The mayor stated that anyone can enter Playa Blanca without needing to be a guest or member of Punta Leona.
The local government’s position is that the road under construction is a public street, so there should be no restrictions on accessing the beach.
There is no cost for access. Entry does not require paying an access fee. However, this does not mean that all services available in the area are free.
One of the main points of confusion among users concerns parking. González explained that Playa Blanca does not have enough parking spaces next to the beach, so historically, visitors have used private parking lots located nearby.
Playa Blanca in Punta Leona
According to him, some tours include parking in nearby lots and transportation to the beach.
You can also use the parking lot managed by Punta Leona, which costs ¢20,000 for eight hours. He said that this service includes access to restrooms and is located near the beach.
According to the mayor, there are no entry times. Although he recommended visiting during the day due to the poor lighting in the area. He even pointed out that people can stay on the beach overnight, as long as they do so at their own risk.
What happens if someone tries to block access? González stated that no person or private company can expel visitors from a public beach. He also maintained that passage on the road that the Municipality considers public should not be obstructed.
In the event of such a situation, he recommended contacting the appropriate authorities through the 911 emergency system or the police in the area.
Q COSTARICA — The potential arrival of El Niño could bring a drier and hotter scenario to Costa Rica in the coming months.
This could include a reduction of up to 50% in rainfall in Guanacaste, temperature increases in various regions of the country, and greater pressure on resources such as water and energy, warned the School of Geographic Sciences at the Universidad Nacional (UNA).
Projections analyzed by international meteorological organizations and national authorities indicate that the phenomenon could solidify during the second half of 2026 and even extend into early 2027, in a context marked by global warming.
Ricardo Orozco, a climatologist at the UNA’s School of Geographic Sciences, noted that current scenarios show conditions similar to those historically observed during this phenomenon.
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) estimates an 80% probability of El Niño developing between June and August 2026, a percentage that would exceed 90% by the end of the year.
Furthermore, the most recent projections suggest that it could reach a strong or very strong intensity between November 2026 and January 2027.
If this scenario is confirmed, the North Pacific would be the most affected region, with Guanacaste potentially receiving up to 50% less rainfall than normal during the June-August quarter, according to estimates from the national weather service, the Instituto Meteorológico Nacional de Costa Rica (IMN).
The Central Pacific and the Central Valley would experience reductions of around 40%, while the South Pacific would have about 35% less precipitation.
In contrast, the Caribbean and Northern regions could receive between 10% and 15% more rain than average.
The decrease in rainfall would also be accompanied by an increase in temperatures.
Guanacaste could register increases of up to two degrees Celsius above normal values, while other regions would experience increases of between one and 1.3 degrees.
This scenario would have direct consequences on water availability, agricultural production, public health, and electricity generation.
“El Niño is a natural phenomenon. The difference now is that we are in a context of global warming,” Orozco explained.
The researcher recalled that previous events caused significant reductions in rainfall in Guanacaste and forced the declaration of drought emergencies in several areas of the Pacific coast.
This highlights the need to strengthen institutional and community preparedness for a possible new episode of the phenomenon.
Q COSTARICA — San José once again became the athletics capital on Sunday with the eighth edition of the San José Marathon.
The 2026 San José Marathon competition brought together 5,000 athletes from more than 25 countries, who participated in the certified distances of 42K, 21K, 10.5K, and 5K.
The official start took place at 5:00 a.m. from the Parque Central in the heart of San José, in an event organized by the Comité Cantonal de Deportes y Recreación de San José (San José Cantonal Sports and Recreation Committee).
The event was supported by the Municipality of San José and solidified its position as one of the country’s premier sporting competitions.
The star of the day was Kenyan Rodgers Ondati Gesabwa, who set a new marathon record, completing the 42 kilometers in 2:19:45 and became the overall male winner.
In the women’s division, Mexico’s Argentina Valdepeña took first place with a time of 2:50:32, marking her third victory in the San José Marathon, on a date that also coincided with her birthday.
Costa Rica also excelled in the main race with Ángelo Olivo and Susana Guillén Mora as the top national representatives.
Olivo finishing third overall in the men’s division, while Guillén Mora finished third in the women’s division.
Concurrently, the San José Without Barriers Mini Race took place, focused on promoting sports inclusion for people with disabilities.
The event began at the Costa Rican Museo de Arte in La Sabana and concluded at the official marathon finish line in Parque Central.
At the close of the day, the 2026 San José Marathon received the Blue Flag Ecological Event award for recognition of the actions taken in waste management, the efficient use of resources, and environmental education.
The organizers expressed their gratitude for the support of athletes, sponsors, volunteers, security personnel, and the general public.
They also emphasized that the event continues to strengthen the promotion of sports, inclusion, sustainability, and healthy lifestyles in Costa Rica.
Q COSTARICA — On Thursday afternoon, the Fuera Publica (National Police), along with the Municipal Police, carried out an operation at Punta Leona resort in Garabito to reopen public access to the beaches and surrounding areas.
This was done following a judge’s order to remove barriers — a gate (aguja in Spanish and gatehouse) that had blocked the roads leading to the public beach.
For years, a gate and guardhouse had stood in the way, letting through only residents, staff, or guests of the resort.
But now, those roads must be open to everyone.
During the police action, some security guards from the resort clashed with officers, and videos show them physically confronting the police. Several people got hurt and needed medical help, and some resort employees were arrested for attacking the officers enforcing the court’s order.
Authorities are still investigating to figure out who’s responsible for what happened.
Francisco González, the mayor of Garabito, explained why the barriers were taken down. In a video shared on social media, he said this should have happened 25 years ago. Back in 2001, the road was declared public, but for reasons he doesn’t know, it was never opened. A legal hold-up by Punta Leona was recently lifted, allowing the police to remove the blockades.
The mayor made it clear the police never entered private property—they were simply following a court order that had been waiting to be enforced for over two decades.
Punta Leona is a famous resort and nature reserve covering more than 40 hectares. Located about 15 minutes north of Playa Jacó and 90 minutes from San José, it’s known for its rich forest and two stunning beaches: Mantas and Blanca.
Until now, access was limited to guests, club members, or those who paid for a day pass, which included vehicle access, parking, and transport to Playa Blanca.
With the barriers gone, the public can now freely enjoy Playa Blanca and other areas.
Costa Rican law says all beaches are public. People have traditionally walked from Playa Mantas to Playa Blanca along the rocky point during low tide.
Punta Leona calls the police action arbitrary, pointing out that the internal roads are listed as private and are currently being reviewed in court.
Meanwhile, Mayor González is inviting everyone—from locals to visitors across the country—to come and enjoy the newly opened public areas at Punta Leona.
Q COSTARICA — A study by the Observatorio Laboral de Profesiones (OLaP) del Consejo Nacional de Rectores (CONARE)— Labor Observatory of Professions of the National Council of Rectors, revealed that 68.5% of university graduates in Costa Rica, between 2020 and 2022, were the first in their families to earn a university degree.
The results were released on Tuesday, June 2, during the presentation of the sixth report, “Monitoring University Graduates 2020-2022 from Costa Rican Universities.”
The research highlighted the prominent role of the public education system, as 78.6% of graduates completed their secondary education in public schools.
One of the report’s findings is the graduates’ interest in continuing their education after completing university.
Thus, 76.7% of those who obtained a university degree between 2020 and 2022 continued their studies afterward, reflecting a trend toward professional development and strengthening skills to face the job market.
Artificial Intelligence on the Rise
The research also reveals the accelerated incorporation of technological tools in professional practice.
More than half of the graduates, specifically 56.5%, indicated using artificial intelligence solutions in their daily work.
Among the most used applications are chatbots, data analysis systems, and virtual assistants—technologies that have become increasingly common resources in the workplace and in academic settings.
English Remains a Competitive Factor
The report also confirms the continued relevance of English language proficiency in professional development.
74.4% of graduates reported having knowledge of this language, with the upper-intermediate level (B2) being the most frequent among those who indicated proficiency, according to the study.
The report also indicates that the main ways to acquire these language skills are through specialized courses and self-study.
The results of the Labor Observatory of Professions allow us to identify some of the main trends that characterize graduates of higher education.
Q COSTARICA — In a context where Russia invaded Ukraine several years ago, the presence of Russian military personnel in neighboring Nicaragua is a source of concern for Costa Rica’s Foreign Minister, Manuel Tovar.
Speaking to AFP in France on various topics, the diplomat did not hide his unease.
“There is a significant Russian military presence in Nicaragua. They recently renewed a military cooperation agreement with Moscow, and it seems to me that these troops are far from where they should be. (…) This is a factor that worries us, particularly knowing that there is a war in the heart of Europe, caused by Russia in Ukraine, and we are not comfortable with it,” Tovar said.
The AFP report emphasizes that the regime led by dictators Daniel Ortega and his wife, Rosario Murillo, is Moscow’s main partner in Central America.
Tovar did not suggest in any way that Nicaragua is preparing for an invasion, but his words seem to imply that such a scenario cannot be completely ruled out.
Russian troops are permitted to legally operate in Nicaragua under long-standing, biannual presidential decrees that authorize foreign forces to enter the country for joint training, law enforcement, and humanitarian assistance.
While the Nicaraguan government portrays this as routine, Russia and Nicaragua ratified a major military cooperation pact that embeds Russian forces deeper into the country.
This agreement expands Russian intelligence sharing, electronic warfare cooperation, and joint training, leading international observers and political opponents to warn that Nicaragua is effectively transitioning into a Russian base of operations in the Western Hemisphere.
According to Confidencial Nicaragua, Nicaragua’s leading online news source, in April, Russia’s Federation Council (Senate) ratified its agreement to strengthen military cooperation with Nicaragua, signed in Moscow in September 2025.
“Nicaragua is becoming a Russian military base,” says opposition figure and former political prisoner Felix Maradiaga.
Previously, in December 2024, Russia had already approved a draft intergovernmental agreement on military cooperation with Nicaragua proposed by the Russian Ministry of Defense and coordinated with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other Russian institutions, for a period of five years.
Russia is a longstanding ally of Nicaragua that, during the first Sandinista government (1979–1990), supplied Soviet weaponry to the Nicaraguan Armed Forces—an alliance that continues today not only through material and military assistance but also through political support in major international organizations.
In August 2024, an investigation by Confidencial revealed that a Nicaraguan Army base located at Cerro Mokoron, south of Managua, has in recent years become one of Russia’s main espionage centers.
The report revealed that the Russian espionage center operates at Mokorón military base in Managua, details that Russian officials are the only ones who control and handle the equipment and the information obtained, while Nicaraguan officers are limited to providing “security” at the base, according to sources with access to the facility.
“Nicaragua is the most visible center of Russian surveillance (in Latin America), under the unconditional support of the regime of (Daniel) Ortega to (Vladimir) Putin, and longstanding historical ties with the former Soviet Union,” according to a report by the Jack D. Gordon Institute for Public Policy at Florida International University (FIU), prepared by national security researcher Douglas Farah, as detailed in a Confidencial article published in October 2024.
Satellite Monitoring. Nicaragua hosts a ground station of the Russian GLONASS satellite positioning system.
The Russian Federal Space Agency Roscosmos has erected stations for the Globalnaya Navigatsionnaya Sputnikovaya Sistema (GLONASS) system* in Russia, Antarctica, and South Africa, as well as in the Western Hemisphere, four stations in Brazil, and since April 2017, has had one in Nicaragua.
Last November, Latinamerica21.com reported that, with limited resources but clear objectives, Moscow made Nicaragua its military enclave in Central America, seeking to project symbolic influence and challenging the US-led order.
Military cooperation between Russia and Nicaragua dates back to the Cold War, when nearly 90% of the country’s military equipment came from the former Soviet Union.
* Editor’s note: Back in 2019, during one of my last trips to Nicaragua, I got the chance to visit the GLONASS system—just the outside, mind you—alongside a group of Russian visitors. From the moment I saw it, the place felt straight out of a spy thriller, like something you’d expect in a secret agent’s world.
Q COSTARICA — The possibility of someone attempting to assassinate President Laura Fernández because of her fight against drug trafficking and organized crime doesn’t keep her up at night.
In the weekly press conference on Wednesday, doña Laura stated that she was elected to make decisions, not to sit idly by performing minor administrative tasks.
“Tell me who your enemy is, and I’ll tell you what kind of work you’re doing. I will continue to lead, fulfilling my patriotic duty to the people of Costa Rica, regardless of who it bothers. (…) In my family, we have always been God-fearing people. I always receive the blessings of the people of Costa Rica, and I know that my purpose is far greater than that of anyone who wants to harm me, so I sleep like a baby, I work with all the energy in the world, and I will continue to fight those who, as we know, are bothered by my work,” Fernández said.
Just days shy of her first month in office, authorities at the Ministry of Justice are investigating an alleged threat against the president’s life.
The Ministry confirmed this in a brief statement.
“In response to repeated inquiries regarding reports circulating about an alleged plot to assassinate the President of the Republic, Laura Fernández Delgado, the Ministry of Justice and Peace has indeed received a report and will refrain from commenting on security matters, intelligence, or any potential investigations in this regard,” the Ministry stated.
Since taking office on May 8, Fernández has led an elite task force to address the crime and drug trafficking plaguing the country.
As part of these measures, Fernández announced restrictions on prison visits, the potential recording of meetings between maximum-security inmates and their families and lawyers, and sanctions against owners of illegal airstrips, among other actions.
She is also coordinating efforts with the judiciary and members of parliament to establish harsher prison sentences, including reforms to the Penal Code and the Law on the Execution of Sentences.
The news outlet Noticias Trivisión reported that a well-known drug trafficking gang is allegedly behind the threat originating from inside La Reforma, Costa Rica’s maximum security prison.
The individuals supposedly involved have been isolated, and the case remains under investigation.
The president stated in recent days that she will do everything possible to prevent criminal leaders in prison from continuing to issue orders.
“I will not allow high-level criminals from extremely dangerous gangs, behind bars, to continue directing other gang members on the outside. Who is relaying information and messages to the gang members on the outside? I don’t believe it’s telepathy. So, this needs to be thoroughly investigated. (…) Something is amiss; either they are communicating through visits or they have other means of communication. I have seen cases of people receiving up to 17 visits per week; that is absurd,” Fernández said.
Q COSTARICA — The decline in tax revenue reported by the Ministry of Finance in recent months has not gone unnoticed by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which has proposed a series of stringent measures for Costa Rica.
These measures include applying taxes to the school bonus and the basic food basket, as well as several changes to the income tax currently paid by businesses and individuals.
In its latest report on the country’s situation, released last week, the IMF proposes raising the VAT from 1% to 13% on all products in the basic food basket. This basket primarily includes mass-consumption goods such as rice, milk, beans, sour cream, cheese, oil, and other items considered essential.
Another measure involves applying VAT to the school bonus. This is a bonus received only by public sector employees and, in theory, would generate an increase in tax revenue equivalent to 0.3% of GDP.
Finally, the IMF recommended reducing the minimum income tax exemption amount for salaried workers, while simultaneously increasing taxes on higher earners.
In addition, the IMF recommended that the country introduce a single corporate income tax rate, along with a simplified tax regime for small taxpayers.
What does the government say?
However, the possibility of moving forward with a plan to increase revenue through new taxes was dismissed by legislator Nogui Acosta, former Minister of Finance and head of the ruling Pueblo Soberano party, in an interview with LA REPÚBLICA.
Nevertheless, the politician does agree that Costa Rica should adopt a global income tax system, which would unify all income received by an individual or legal entity during a year and apply a single progressive tax.
Under this system, it doesn’t matter if the money comes from a salary, independent consulting, travel expenses, rent, teaching, or a business; All resources are consolidated into a single base for calculating the tax.
“The position is not to approve any new taxes for four years. Note that global income tax is not more tax. It’s an issue we will evaluate later, but it’s not about creating new taxes in the country,” Acosta said.
The current situation
In terms of tax collection, at the close of the first quarter of the year, total revenues experienced a decrease of 0.2% of 2026 GDP compared to the same period in 2025.
In nominal terms, they reached ¢1.95 billion colones, representing a net cumulative decrease of ¢70,855 million compared to the same period in 2025, when they stood at ¢2.03 billion colones.
Among the factors that have contributed to the slower growth in tax revenues are the lower exchange rate, less dynamic growth observed in some periods under the final tax regime, legislative decisions that have weakened the tax base, and what is known as “tax fatigue,” meaning that the 2018 tax reform has lost its impact.
By the end of last year, the debt-to-GDP ratio stood at 59.2%, and although debt grew by 1.5% as of March 2026 compared to the end of the previous period, it remained below the historical average growth rate for the 2009-2026 period, according to the Ministry of Finance.
Q COSTARICA — After several weeks of record lows in the Mercado de Monedas Extranjeras (Monex) — Foreign Exchange Market, the dollar exchange rate has recovered some of its value.
Between last Friday and Tuesday, June 2, the dollar increased by 3.51 colones, once again surpassin the 460-colón mark and is now selling for 461.06 colones.
The expectation is that it will continue to rise.
That is the forecast by economic analyst Daniel Suchar, adding that the war between the United States and Iran is beginning to be felt in Costa Rica.
“The effects of the trade war between the United States and Iran are beginning to be felt in the Costa Rican economy, albeit slowly. Prices are reflected in the international market and then influence the country.
“The transfer is slow in the country due to the large amount of dollars we have in international reserves. The expectation is that it will continue to rise,” Suchar said.
Experts are cautious, saying the Costa Rican colon’s recent rise against the dollar isn’t a long-term trend. Instead, it’s just a small bounce back after hitting a 21-year low earlier this year.
As of today, June 4, the Central Bank of Costa Rica (BCCR) set the exchange rate at ¢459.14 to buy and ¢463.66 to sell.
The slight increase of about ¢4.50 in late May and early June is just a short-term blip caused by local money flow changes—not a sign that the dollar-colon rate is turning around for good, but rather a temporary fluctuation driven by localized liquidity changes rather than a permanent trend reversal.
Q COSTARICA — The Guanacaste Airport in Liberia (LIR), a member of the VINCI Airports network, registered a record number of dogs and cats arriving during the first four months of the year, with 876 pets accompanying their owners on their adventures in Costa Rica.
The number of pet arrivals shows a 4% increase, equivalent to 30 more pets than the previous record for the first four months of 2025. Meanwhile, departures for the same period in 2026 reached 557 pets.
This trend confirms the growth of pet-friendly tourism in the region. Guanacaste is strengthening its position as a destination that facilitates international travel for passengers traveling with their pets.
Due to this surge, Guanacaste Airport has three exclusive and specially equipped areas for the care of traveling pets in different parts of the terminal. Furthermore, it maintains clear protocols and coordination with health authorities to expedite care processes.
If you wish to travel with your pet, you must take into account the requirements established by the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG) and the National Animal Health Service (SENASA).
To enter Costa Rica with a pet:
To leave Costa Rica with a pet:
If traveling with pets, it is also advisable to check with the airline regarding permitted dimensions, fees, and whether pets are allowed in the cabin or only in the cargo hold.
“We celebrate Guanacaste’s consolidation as an attractive destination for travelers with their pets. The growth of pet-friendly tourism and the low return rate reflect how families are choosing destinations that allow them to enjoy complete experiences. We offer designated areas and facilities that guarantee a safe and satisfactory stay for companion animals,” stated César Jaramillo, General Manager of Guanacaste Airport.
Pet-Friendly Culture
Costa Rica is highly accommodating to pets, with many open-air restaurants, shopping centers, and beach town cafes welcoming dogs.
Pets are increasingly viewed as core family members. The country’s lush landscapes and relaxed lifestyle make it incredibly accommodating for four-legged companions
To maintain public health standards, the Ministry of Health has clarified rules for businesses serving food (like restaurants and bars). Certified service animals are automatically allowed inside, while other pets can be hosted on patios as long as the establishment provides clear signage, waste disposal stations, and carries liability insurance.
Leaving Costa Rica with your pet
If your stay in Costa Rica exceeds your original health certificate’s expiration window (typically 14 to 30 days, depending on your origin), you must visit a licensed Costa Rican veterinarian before heading home to get a brand new export clearance through SENASA.
