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Your child was born abroad and you’re Costa Rican: Your child has the right to be Costa Rican

By
Rico
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Q COSTA RICA — Picture this: you’re a Costa Rican living overseas, and you come back home for a vacation with your little one who was born abroad, ie the U.S., Canada, or Europe.

You spend some amazing days reconnecting with family, soaking up the beaches and the familiar sights. But when it’s time to head home, you hit a snag at the airport. Suddenly, you’re told your child can’t leave Costa Rica without an exit permit (called a Permiso de Salida), something no one warned you about.

This is more common than you might think among Costa Ricans returning with kids born abroad.

The good news? You can handle this before you travel.

Costa Rica grants citizenship by descent. So if your child’s parent was born in Costa Rica, your child has the right to Costa Rican citizenship—even if they were born overseas and hold a foreign passport. Because of this, immigration is strict about protecting minors from being taken out of the country without proper authorization.

Just having a foreign passport doesn’t cut it once the border officials connect the dots about your child’s Costa Rican heritage.

Many parents are surprised because their child breezes into Costa Rica on a foreign passport, like a U.S. one. But the immigration system cross-checks parents’ details, and if it sees a Costa Rican parent, it treats the child as a citizen.

Technically, if a minor isn’t registered with Costa Rica’s Civil Registry, they might enter and leave using only their foreign passport. But that’s a gamble that could lead to unexpected legal headaches.

So, what’s this Permiso de Salida all about?

It’s a formal OK from both parents (or a legal guardian) that lets a minor leave Costa Rica. Without it, a Costa Rican child—or even a foreign child residing in Costa Rica—can’t legally exit the country. It’s there to protect minors and make sure their departures are above board.

This rule applies whether the child has dual citizenship or is just living in Costa Rica on residency.

Traveling with just one parent? That’s where things get tricky. If only one parent is taking the child out, the other parent has to give permission—usually a notarized document or a consular authorization. If one parent is in Costa Rica and the other is abroad, this needs to be sorted out well before the trip at the nearest Costa Rican consulate.

Bottom line: if you’re Costa Rican and your child was born outside Costa Rica, you have a choice. You can register your child as a Costa Rican citizen or not. Registering makes travel smoother, gives access to public healthcare, university tuition at local rates (plus scholarships), unlimited stays, and a full Costa Rican identity. Skip registration, and you’ll need that Permiso de Salida every time your child leaves the country.

You can register your child at the nearest Costa Rican consulate. Bring the child’s original foreign birth certificate (apostilled or legalized), a certified Spanish translation, and your valid Costa Rican ID (cédula). The consulate sends everything securely to San José, where it usually takes about three months to process.

If you’re already in Costa Rica, you can skip the consulate and take the documents directly to the main Civil Registry office in San José. This tends to be faster, taking roughly 3 to 13 weeks.

Here’s a quick recap on travel:

  • Trying to leave with just a foreign passport? The minor will be stopped and needs a Permiso de Salida.
  • Both parents are in Costa Rica and agree? They go together with the child to immigration to get the permit, and the child can leave.
  • Is one parent abroad? The child can’t leave without prior authorization from the absent parent, which must be arranged at a Costa Rican consulate.

Knowing this ahead of time can save a lot of stress—and keep your trip on track.

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Never before in Costa Rica’s modern history

By
Rico
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04/02/2026, Costa Rica, San Jose, Casa Presidencial, Zapote. Conferencia de prensa con la presencia de Rodrigo Chaves, presidente de la Republica, y Laura Fernandez, presidenta electa y nombrada por Chaves como Ministra de la Presidencia. Ademas estuvo presente todo el gabinete del actual gobierno. (GDA via AP Images)

RICO’s Q — In recent Costa Rican history, no president or minister—even those with strong public support—has ever traveled with the kind of security detail that Laura and Rodrigo have today at Casa Presidencial.

We’re talking full-on police convoys. Teams of bodyguards. Drones buzzing overhead. Dogs and heavy firepower.

Not even Carlos Alvarado (2018-2022), or Laura Chinchilla (2010-2014), who had less popular backing, were ever surrounded by this much protection.

So what’s behind this level of fear?

Who exactly are they protecting, and who are they really accountable to?

Supporters of this heavy security argue things like, “Speaking the truth and fighting theft is dangerous; sometimes the best defense is standing firm,” or “Because the previous leaders were buddies with those who got extradited.”

Back in May, just four days before leaving office, when President Rodrigo Chaves faced the Legislative Assembly, the concrete fortress (Legislative Assembly Building) was heavily guarded, with one of the “9 beasts” armored vehicles standing ready, manned by heavily armed UEI police—Costa Rica’s elite presidential tactical unit—along with scores of uniformed Fuerza Pública and traffic police as Chaves made his way inside.

The only photo I dare to post. You can see the Legislative Assembly building, a concrete fortress, in the background (top right)

I’d never seen anything like it before.

Not even when U.S. President Barack Obama visited, and Laura Chinchilla, ahead of Obama, halted the motorcade at Paseo Colón’s entrance, stepping out to shake hands with the waiting crowd. Doña Laura was right there, just a few feet away, with only a couple of discreet DIS agents—those quiet guys with lapel pins assigned to protect the president.

And during Luis Guillermo Solís’s administration (2014-2018), I once waited hours inside Casa Presidencial’s gates while a small crowd protested outside. When I later met Solís at a paella event, he was flanked by just one casually dressed man with a security pin.

In December 2019 at the AutoMercado in Santa Ana, my wife and I casually snapped a selfie with President Alvarado while he shopped—no security in sight. I scanned the area for any sign of protection, but nothing.

A selfie with the President

Thinking back further, I remember President Abel Pacheco (2002-2006). We were neighbors, just a few blocks apart. Most days, I’d see his motorcade: a grey Lexus and a single motorcycle traffic officer. Sometimes, while walking my dogs, I’d spot him outside his house, and we’d wave. I doubt he remembers it, but for me, it was a big deal—I was only a few years into my Costa Rica experience—and here I was exchanging a hand wave with the country’s president. His only security was one lone Fuerza Pública officer in a ‘caseta’ beside his home.

President Oscar Arias (second term, 2006-2010) and I crossed paths on several occasions—at the launch of Ruta 27 or during his peace efforts in Honduras amid a military coup crisis. Despite these tense moments, security at his Rohrmoser home was minimal.

I recall Arias walking from his home to the National Stadium for the 2010 transfer of power. I was in the crowd walking to the stadium under construction, and then backstage among VIPs, including Daniel Ortega in his signature corduroy jacket. Security was light—nothing compared to the heavy police presence outside the Legislative Assembly for Chaves’s visit in May.

So back to my original question: what is the fear behind all this heavy protection for Rodrigo, both as President and now as Minister, and for Laura Virginia?

No other administration during my time in Costa Rica had such a massive security detail.

Presidents used to move freely through the streets of Costa Rica without fear.

 

 

 

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425 road deaths to August: motorcyclists account for 58% of the victims

By
Rico
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0
This past Sautrday

Q COSTA RICA — Costa Rica recorded 425 traffic fatalities between January and August, according to data released by the Ministerio de Obras Públicas y Transportes (MOPT)—Ministry of Public Works and Transportation—which also reveals a decrease in the number of deaths during the last four months analyzed.

Official figures indicate that 230 people died on the country’s roads between January and April, while 195 deaths were recorded between May and August.

Although the reduction marks a positive change compared to the beginning of the year, the data continues to reflect the impact of traffic accidents in Costa Rica, primarily among motorcyclists.

Of the 425 people who died, 247 were motorcyclists, representing 58% of all road fatalities during the first eight months of the year.

In other words, nearly six out of every ten fatalities were motorcyclists, according to figures shared by the MOPT.

This data once again places this group among the most vulnerable in Costa Rican road traffic, especially due to the lesser physical protection motorcyclists have in the event of a collision, loss of control, or impact with another vehicle.

And the recklessness of many motorcyclists that is clear to anyone driving on Costa Rica’s roads, whether in the busy metropolitan area or out in the more remote areas.

The MOPT took advantage of the release of the statistics to emphasize the need for responsible driving.

“Behave yourself, it’s for your own good, it costs nothing,” the institution stated as part of its message to drivers.

Speeding Leading Cause of Fatal Traffic Accidents

Among the behaviors associated with fatal accidents, speeding is the leading factor identified by authorities.

According to the data released, 146 people died in incidents related to this behavior, making it the leading cause of death on the country’s roads.

This figure represents approximately one-third of all fatalities recorded up to August and reinforces institutional warnings about the risks of driving above the speed limit or at speeds that are not compatible with road conditions.

Speeding not only increases the likelihood of having an accident, but also reduces the time available to react to an obstacle, a pedestrian, another vehicle, or a sudden change in traffic conditions.

Furthermore, the higher the speed at the time of impact, the greater the potential consequences for vehicle occupants and vulnerable road users such as motorcyclists, cyclists, and pedestrians.

Traffic authorities keep this behavior among their priorities for roadside enforcement, along with other behaviors such as improper overtaking, reckless driving, and driving under the influence of alcohol.

August saw no alcohol-related deaths

Alcohol continues to be a steady and increasing issue on the roads of Costa Rica. One of the key findings from the MOPT specifically concerns August, a month in which, according to the released statistics, no deaths were reported due to driving under the influence of alcohol.

This figure stands out in the road safety report, as driving after consuming alcoholic beverages has historically been one of the behaviors of greatest concern to authorities.

However, the fact that no deaths associated with this factor were recorded during August does not eliminate the risk posed by driving under the influence of alcohol.

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El Niño raises temperatures in Costa Rica, and expert warns of increased risk of food spoilage

By
Rico
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0
Extreme drought in a cornfield under a hot sun. There is one green stalk of corn.

Q COSTA RICA — The El Niño phenomenon is significantly raising temperatures in Costa Rica, a fact that has alarmed agricultural and food experts.

According to recent reports, the increased heat accelerates food spoilage, posing a greater risk to food security in the country.

The temperature increase associated with El Niño not only affects environmental conditions but also has a direct impact on agriculture. The high temperatures and prolonged droughts being recorded in Central America, including Costa Rica, are causing significant agricultural losses.

This translates into a reduction in the availability of fresh food and a greater risk of spoilage of stored products, hindering their preservation and increasing economic losses for producers and consumers.

The warning was issued by Edgar Gutiérrez Font, tutor of Food Microbiology at the Universidad Estatal a Distancia (UNED), who pointed out that high temperatures can accelerate both the reproduction of microorganisms and the chemical and natural processes that affect the quality of products.

The call takes on particular importance at a time when Costa Rica is experiencing El Niño-influenced conditions. The national weather service, the Instituto Meteorológico Nacional (IMN), maintains a forecast of low rainfall for September in parts of the Pacific, Central Valley, and Northwest Zone, related to the presence of the El Niño phenomenon and other atmospheric conditions that limit rainfall.

The La Sabana park lake during the last El Niño period

Although Costa Rica is a tropical country accustomed to relatively high temperatures, Gutiérrez explained that an additional increase in heat can significantly alter the length of time food remains safe to eat.

“Hotter conditions can definitely affect food handling and preservation, and increase the risk of exposure to various illnesses caused by food spoilage,” the specialist explained.

According to information released by UNED, climate projections for the second half of 2026 anticipated a reduction in rainfall of between 10% and 30%, accompanied by temperatures between 0.5°C and 1°C above average.

The impact is not limited to food preservation. Reduced rainfall can put pressure on water reserves, affect agricultural productivity, decrease the availability of pasture for livestock, and potentially impact the prices of certain basic goods.

However, once these foods reach supermarkets, stores, and homes, another challenge begins: keeping them at temperatures that inhibit the growth of microorganisms.

The specialist emphasized that precautions shouldn’t focus solely on what’s typically stored in a refrigerator.

Products like eggs (eggs in Costa Rica are not refrigerated), fruits, and vegetables that can be kept at room temperature can also spoil more quickly under intense heat.

For this reason, one of the main recommendations is to avoid buying quantities of fresh food that significantly exceed the household’s immediate needs.

“It’s recommended that when we shop, we buy only what we plan to consume within a certain timeframe. If we buy a large quantity of a fresh food and want to store it, it’s important to portion it out for each use,” Gutiérrez noted.

Thawing on the Countertop Can Increase the Risk

Another common practice that could pose a greater risk during periods of high temperatures is leaving meat or other foods to thaw at room temperature.

Gutiérrez recommended transferring products from the freezer directly to the refrigerator and allowing them to thaw slowly under controlled conditions.

“If we are going to thaw food that we have in the freezer, it is important to do so in the refrigerator, since if we do it at room temperature and with the high temperatures we may experience, the product will be much more susceptible to spoilage,” he explained.

Given the current climate scenario, the UNED summarized the main recommendations into simple actions: plan your shopping trips, properly maintain the cold chain, separate raw and cooked products, store prepared meals correctly, rotate food items, and thaw them in the refrigerator.

The current climate scenario reinforces the importance of these measures. For the week of September 7-13, 2026, the IMN forecasts particularly dry conditions across large areas of the Pacific and rainfall deficits that could extend throughout September, in a context marked by El Niño.

The El Niño phenomenon is strengthening in the region and could also exacerbate food insecurity more broadly, affecting not only Costa Rica but several other Latin American countries.

 

 

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Migration shift in Canada attracts thousands of travelers from Costa Rica

By
Rico
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0

Q COSTA RICA — The recent shift in migration patterns has sparked a notable surge in travelers from Costa Rica heading to Canada. This change is attracting thousands, clearly boosting travel between the two countries.

The trend reflects evolving migration dynamics, with Canada becoming an increasingly popular destination for Costa Rican travelers seeking new opportunities and experiences.

This migration boost is significant enough to be described as “notorio” (noticeable), indicating a striking and clear rise in numbers.

The factors behind this shift likely include Canada’s immigration policies, economic prospects, and perhaps changing circumstances in Costa Rica itself, though specific details were not deeply outlined in the reports.

The noteworthy increase in Costa Rican travelers to Canada underscores a broader picture of migration flows adapting to global and regional changes. Such patterns often mirror shifts in economic conditions, political climates, and international relations that influence people’s decisions to move.

This evolving migration landscape between Costa Rica and Canada is drawing attention for its scale and impact, signaling a new chapter in the movement of people within the Americas.

The surge in travelers contributes to cultural exchanges and economic ties, enriching both nations in diverse ways.

For a detailed look into this migration trend and its implications, you can refer to the coverage at La Nación, which highlights the clear rise in Costa Rican travelers attracted by Canada’s changing migration environment.

Permissions to enter Canada

Costa Rican citizens need either an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or a traditional visitor visa to enter Canada, depending on their travel history and method of entry. Check if you need a visa or eTA to travel to Canada.

Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
Costa Ricans qualify for a simplified eTA instead of a regular visa if they meet specific “known traveler” criteria and are flying into the country.

  • Eligibility Criteria: You must have either held a Canadian visitor visa within the past 10 years OR currently hold a valid U.S. non-immigrant visa.
  • Method of Travel: This option applies strictly to air travel. If you are arriving by land or sea from the U.S., you cannot use an eTA and must have a visitor visa.
  • Cost & Validity: It costs CAD$7 to apply through the Official Government of Canada eTA Portal. Once approved, it links electronically to your passport, lasts for up to 5 years (or until your passport expires), and allows multiple stays of up to 6 months at a time.

Traditional Visitor Visa
If you do not meet the criteria for an eTA, you must apply for a standard Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) before your trip.

  • Who it’s for: Costa Ricans who do not have a recent Canadian visa or a valid U.S. visa, or those planning to enter Canada by land or sea.
  • Application Process: This involves a more extensive online application through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), paying a processing fee (typically CAD$100), and submitting biometrics (fingerprints and a photo).

 

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The Via Crucis of Pilar and Rodrigo

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Q Costa Rica
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#TODO POLITICO — By Luis Paulino Vargas Solís — I see Minister Rodrigo Chaves very distressed and heartbroken that the person in charge of notifications for the Prosecutor’s Office didn’t give him the information he needed to contact his beloved former legislator, Mrs. Pilar Cisneros, at Casa Presidencial.

I understand the Minister’s anguish, and I sympathize with him. It’s obvious that this matter has caused him great pain and mortification.

For my part, I can’t help but wonder what happened that prevented the “distinguished citizen,” Mrs. Pilar’s husband, from receiving the information he needed to pass on the message he received and tell his esteemed wife that she should call the Prosecutor’s Office numbers that were provided to the aforementioned “distinguished citizen.”

Or, if the latter did manage to pass on the message, what happened then that prevented Doña Pilar from doing so and from understanding that the proper course of action was to call the Prosecutor’s Office to see what was needed for Mr. Carlo Díaz?

In other words: we are witnessing a series of missteps that give rise to a very dramatic tale of intrigue and overflowing passions, which could be titled “The Sufferings of Don Rodrigo” or, alternatively, “Doña Pilar’s Mistake.”

But I believe the best title for such a moving story would be: “The Via Crucis (Stations of the Cross, also known as the Way of the Cross) of Pilar and Rodrigo.”

Now, when I see Minister Chaves in such a state of agitation, practically on the verge of a meltdown, a fit, or who knows, maybe even a heart attack, all because the prosecutor’s process server couldn’t find the distinguished spouse of the distinguished citizen at Casa Presidencial, I can’t help but think to myself: “No wonder Costa Rica’s public finances and national economy are going from bad to worse.”

The thing is, as we can see and confirm, the super-minister (Chaves heads the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of the Presidency) in whose hands such delicate matters lie is least interested in doing his job and fulfilling his duty.

Other things occupy him. Far more.

Besides, there are plenty of reasons to doubt that he has the slightest idea how to do it.

Translated and adapted from the social media (Facebook) post by Luis Paulino Vargas Solís.

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Why are Costa Ricans seeking asylum?

By
Rico
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0

Q COSTA RICA — For decades, Costa Rica has been a destination country for refugees. However, recent figures reveal a growing trend: an increasing number of Costa Ricans are seeking international protection abroad.

In 2025, 1,820 asylum applications were filed by Costa Rican citizens abroad, a significantly higher number than a decade earlier.

The contrast is striking. In 2015, there were 213 applications, while in 2024, the number reached 2,381, the highest figure for the period.

This means that, compared to those two years, applications have increased more than elevenfold. Furthermore, since 2022, the number of applications has remained above 1,000 annually.

The United States receives three out of every four applications

The main destination for Costa Ricans who resort to this mechanism is the United States. Of the 1,820 applications recorded during 2025, a total of 1,348 were filed in the United States, representing approximately 74% of the total.

Simply put, nearly three out of every four Costa Ricans who sought asylum that year did so in the United States.

The remaining cases were distributed among different countries.

However, there is a significant limitation to understanding what is behind this increase: asylum processes are confidential, and there is no detailed public information that allows us to know the particular circumstances alleged by each applicant.

Why are Costa Ricans seeking asylum?

The figure raises an inevitable question, but the available data does not allow us to answer it with a single explanation.

Costa Rica has been experiencing a complex security situation for several years, marked by homicides, disputes between criminal organizations, drug trafficking, and the expansion of organized crime.

Threats, violence, or specific situations of insecurity may be among the reasons given by some applicants. However, it cannot be stated that the overall increase in applications is a direct consequence of crime, because the aggregated data does not reveal individual reasons.

Nor does applying for asylum automatically mean that the person has been recognized as a refugee.

This point is crucial for correctly interpreting the figures.

Applying for asylum does not mean obtaining it

An application for international protection initiates a procedure in which the authorities of the receiving country must determine whether the person meets the established requirements to receive that status.

Therefore, 1,820 applications do not equate to 1,820 Costa Ricans recognized as refugees. An application can be accepted, rejected, abandoned, or remain pending while the authorities analyze the case.

Refugee status, moreover, is governed by specific criteria for international protection. Simply wanting to emigrate, seeking better job opportunities, or believing that another country offers better living conditions is not enough.

Another element that arises in this phenomenon is the possibility that some people resort to the asylum or refugee system as part of a strategy to remain in another territory while their immigration status is being resolved.

This possibility may exist in individual cases, but overall statistics do not allow us to determine how many Costa Rican applicants are acting for this reason.

Presenting it as the explanation for all cases would be incorrect, just as it would be inaccurate to assert that all applicants fled Costa Rica due to violence, political persecution, or organized crime.

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Trump posts fantasy map showing his version of the United States of America!

By
Rico
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0

RICO’s Q — Yesterday, I shared that President Laura Fernández has been thinking about permitting U.S. ground troops to operate in Costa Rica.

In her interview with Reuters, which was then shared across all the major news networks and social media, she stated that U.S. ground operations would be “very beneficial” for Costa Rica’s security, contributing to combating transnational crime, drug trafficking, and terrorism. She also revealed that a conversation about this option happened a few months back.

Well, Doña Laura, here’s what the current occupant of the White House thinks about all of this.

In his post on Monday, President Trump has declared that North and Central America are now part of the United States of America. He also provided an altered map on Truth Social showing the U.S. flag covering large parts of North America, Central America, Greenland, Iceland, and Caribbean islands like Cuba and Jamaica, labeling the landmass as the “United States of America.”

No Explanation. Trump shared the graphic without any text, caption, or formal policy explanation.

Immediately after the post, Iceland—dependent on the United States for security since it hasn’t had a military since its independence in 1944—summoned in its ambassador.

Iceland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said yesterday in a statement: “Minister for Foreign Affairs, Thorgerdur Katrin Gunnarsdottir, summoned the US Ambassador yesterday to convey a clear message that the image was wholly inappropriate.”

Costa Rica has not had a military since the constitutional amendment in 1948, right after the conclusion of the Costa Rican Civil War.  Costa Rica celebrates the Día de la Abolición del Ejército (Army Abolition Day) every year on December 1 to honor this legacy.

Doña Laura, you could take a call from the Icelanders and instruct our Foreign Minister to recall our ambassador and make a similar statement, letting the White House know where we Costa Ricans, through you, stand.

 

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Political violence in Costa Rica reaches alarming levels

By
Rico
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0

Q COSTA RICA — In the first 100 days of Laura Fernández’s administration, political violence against women has reached alarming levels.

Data from the Digital Communication Observatory of the Universidad Latina (ULatina) highlights that, when analyzing online conversations, the majority of comments about women are negative.

Worst of all, this is pure and simple political violence, unfiltered and with very little questioning of ideas, focusing instead on private matters.

“Attacks on reputation, mockery of physical appearance and age, and references to traditional gender roles account for 89% of the categorizations; only 11% relate to proposals. This demonstrates that much of the negativity shifts from public performance to personal delegitimization,” the study, conducted between May 1 and August 16, 2026, on social media, news sites, blogs, and other publicly accessible online spaces, indicates.

Claudia Dobles is the target of criticism

Political violence constitutes the majority of negative comments directed at all the women analyzed in the study.

However, Claudia Dobles, a legislative member for the Agenda Ciudadana, stands out as the figure who receives the most criticism from internet users, given that 43% of the comments she receives can be considered political violence, while 72% of the mentions on social media are negative.

“First, it must be said that we have a political movement that fosters and encourages violence (…) Interestingly, political violence is very focused on women, not on their ideas, but on other areas, such as their physical appearance, how they dress, and their reputation, and this stems from a very violent environment,” Dobles pointed out.

Gender-based political violence is any action or omission, based on gender, that seeks to limit, nullify, or undermine women’s political and electoral rights or their ability to hold public office.

“These attacks demonstrate that the phenomenon transcends elected positions and that institutional hierarchy alone does not determine the level of exposure; likewise, they divert attention from proposals, force women to answer for personal attributes, and reduce the space for programmatic debate,” the study concluded.

The ULatina research was conducted with the support of Kantar IBOPE Media, which analyzed 832,000 mentions on social media platforms such as Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), news sites, YouTube, and Instagram. For the purposes of this report, messages and comments from accounts identified as “digital trolls” were removed.

What constitutes negative attacks against women in politics?

The analysis of digital behavior conducted by ULatina during Laura Fernández’s first 100 days in office reveals that negative online discourse against women is not centered on the debate of ideas, but rather on various forms of aggression that can be classified as political violence:

  • Attacks on reputation (40%): These represent the main offense, focused on undermining the personal and professional prestige of political figures.
  • Mockery of physical appearance and age (37%): Aggressions that use attributes of their appearance or chronological age to discredit them.
  • Traditional role of women (12%): Attacks based on gender stereotypes and questioning of their social role.
  • Scorn of proposals (11%): Only a small fraction of the negativity qualifies as democratic criticism or discussion of their work proposals.

Target of criticism

Political violence constitutes the majority of negative comments directed at all women involved in politics, according to a study conducted by Universidad Latina.

Political Figure: Political Violence General — Negative Comments — Total Critical Load

  • Claudia Dobles (legislator): 43 — 29 — 72
  • Kattia Calvo (legislator): 36 — 18 — 54
  • Patricia Solano (Judge, Chamber III):  33 — 26 — 59
  • Laura Fernández (President): 19 — 14 — 33
  • Joselyn Sáenz legislator): 13 — 10 — 23

 

 

 

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August ends with deflation of -0.11%, so why isn’t it being felt in our wallets?

By
Rico
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0

Q COSTA RICA — At the end of August, inflation in Costa Rica once again registered a negative rate, according to the National Institute of Statistics and Census (INEC).

The monthly variation was -0.11%, while the accumulated variation through August 2026 was also negative, at -0.50%. Finally, the year-on-year variation through August 2026 was -0.17%.

Cheaper goods and services?

But why aren’t we feeling the savings in our wallets?

Most people don’t really feel like prices have dropped overall, even though some popular items—especially imports at big box stores—have gotten cheaper.

According to experts, negative inflation does not mean that all prices have decreased or that they have returned to the levels of previous years.

In reality, it simply means that the average price of the canasta básica alimentaria en Costa Rica (basic food basket) is slightly lower compared to the previous 12 months, explained

Another aspect to consider is that, after significant increases over several years, a small reduction does not reverse the loss of purchasing power for families. In other words, negative inflation does not compensate for previous price hikes.

For example, if a product went from 1,000 colones to 1,300 colones and then dropped to 1,270 colones, statistically there is a recent reduction, but for the consumer it is still much more expensive than before.

It is also clear that not all families consume the same products.

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) reflects the average of 289 goods and services, so it is obvious that not all families consume the same products.

The basic basket of goods and services measured by the National Institute of Statistics and Census (INEC) includes items such as airline tickets, new cars, and international travel packages, while also tracking the cost of bus transportation, housing rentals, and the prices of eggs and tomatoes, among other things.

Furthermore, economic analyst Daniel Suchar also highlights the differences in Costa Ricans’ perceptions of inflation.

“The difference lies mainly in the fact that the CPI measures the average variation of a basket of 289 goods and services, which has been strongly influenced downwards by the fall in very specific sectors, such as transportation and imported goods, thanks to the appreciation of the colón; however, the perception of households is built from ‘high-frequency inflation’, that is, day-to-day purchases, such as fresh food, rents and public services, whose nominal prices stabilized, but remained at the high level they reached after the global inflationary shock of 2022,” he indicated.

What is the basic food basket?

It is a group of essential foods and beverages that covers the basic nutritional needs of a household. It is used to measure poverty and define reduced tax policies (IVA at 1%).

Main Products of the basic food basket include grains and staples such as: rice, beans, corn, tortillas, and pasta; Milk, cheese, and meats: beef, pork, and chicken, plus eggs, canned tuna, sausages, oils, sugar, coffee, fruits, and vegetables.

The cheapest supermarket chain in Costa Rica is Palí (and its larger format, MaxiPalí), both belonging to the Walmart Central America group. Mid-range includes MegaSuper, Más x Menos, and Walmart. The high-end/gourmet supermarket chain in Costa Rica is AutoMercado.

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Tropical wave 41 will enter Costa Rica today!

By
Rico
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0

Q COSTA RICA — This year’s rainy season in Costa Rica has been anything but typical. Known for its predictable wet months from May through November, the country is experiencing a series of strange weather events that have caught residents and meteorologists off guard.

Usually, the rainy season brings steady downpours mainly in the afternoons and evenings, providing relief from the tropical heat. But this year, the pattern has shifted. Instead of gradual rains, many areas in Costa Rica have seen sudden, intense storms that hit without warning, often followed by long stretches, days at times, of unexpected dryness. And intense heat.

But today, Tuesday, Tropical Wave No. 41 is expected to enter Costa Rica, while the country is still recovering from the effects of the previous wave, which 48 hours earlier caused flooding in five cantons and power outages in parts of Puerto Jiménez.

Tropical Wave No. 40, which crossed the country on Sunday, brought up to 80 millimeters of rain to the Osa Peninsula, 50 mm to the Limón airport and Laurel, and 40 mm to Pérez Zeledón, according to the national weather service, the Instituto Meteorológico Nacional (IMN).

These rainfall totals saturated soils already affected by weeks of continuous precipitation.

CNE has issued a green alert for four regions of the country

The Comisión Nacional de Emergencias (CNE)—National Emergency Commission—maintains a green alert for rains in the Caribbean slope, the Northern Zone, the Central Pacific, and the South Pacific.

The measure responds to both the impact of the recent tropical wave and the approaching weather system.

The CNE reported incidents on Sunday in Osa, Golfito, Puerto Jiménez, Pérez Zeledón, and Limón.

“In several sectors of Puerto Jiménez, weather conditions caused a temporary power outage. The agencies working in the area managed to restore service,” the CNE stated.

Storms from Tropical Wave No. 41 are expected to start forming early this Tuesday morning off the coast of Limón. Starting Wednesday, they will become more prevalent in the Caribbean and the Northern Zone. In the Pacific, rainfall will be isolated and concentrated in the afternoons.

For the Central Valley, the IMN anticipates occasional rains moving in from the mountains, with less intensity than those expected in the coastal regions.

An El Niño phenomenon complicates the medium-term forecast

The underlying climate context adds a paradox to the outlook: despite the succession of tropical waves, the IMN projected a rainfall deficit in the Pacific, the Central Valley, and the Northwest Zone for the remainder of September and the first days of October.

“This deficit is due to the continued presence of an established El Niño phenomenon, along with atmospheric conditions that generate stronger-than-normal trade winds, a highly atypical behavior for September that will decrease rainfall activity on the Pacific slope,” the institute stated, according to El Observador.

The Caribbean and the Northern Zone, on the other hand, are expected to experience rainfall during the first two weeks of the month.

Since the onset of El Niño this season, many regions in Costa Rica have experienced noticeably reduced rainfall. The Pacific side, typically drier than the Caribbean coast, has felt the brunt of the dryness, with some areas reporting the driest conditions in years. This dry spell is not just a minor inconvenience. It threatens agriculture, from coffee plantations to staple crops, which rely heavily on predictable rainy periods.

Tropical Wave No. 42 is now on the IMN’s radar

The IMN says it is monitoring Tropical Wave No. 42, which is expected to approach Costa Rica early next week. At the moment, the system is not showing significant development, although authorities are continuing to monitor it.

The Intertropical Convergence Zone also remains active over the Pacific waters near the country. This condition, combined with the unstable atmospheric pattern that emerged over the weekend, supports a scenario of rain that will extend at least until Wednesday, with greater intensity in the Atlantic regions.

The IMN also forecasts a gradual increase in wind speed over the north of the national territory today, which could intensify the conditions prior to the arrival of the new wave.

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A Quick Word About Over-hyped Panama vs Costa Rica for Living or Retirement

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Guest Post
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Q (Guest Post) Recently, Panama has received a lot of buzz and unwarranted publicity in the media as being the new Costa Rica for relocation. Remember! There is only one Costa Rica, which is often imitated but never equaled and is the pioneer country and benchmark for relocation and retirement.

Here are a few precise reasons why Panama will NEVER replace Costa Rica:

  • Panama is limited and has only a few suitable places to relocate to: Panama City with its traffic, suffocating heat, and high air conditioning bills; the nearby beach town of Coronado, and Altos del María 1.5 hours west of Panama; El Valle de Antón, a famous mountain village about a 2.5-hour drive from Panama City; Pedasí, a coastal town and district on the southeastern tip of the Azuero Peninsula; David in the northwest and Panama’s second largest city with an average year-round temperature of 86°F.
  • Both Boquete and Volcán, in the mountains, are around 27 miles from David and have cooler weather and a community of around 3,000 to 5,000 English-speaking expatriates. It is only a matter of time before the area becomes overrun with foreigners. Clients who took a Panamanian relocation tour reported that, other than the places above, the 300 miles between Panama City and the northwest part of the country is virtually desolate and really not desirable for expat living.
  • There are no commercial airports or flights directly from Boquete. The closest facility is Enrique Malek International (DAV) in David, located about 27 miles south of Boquete. While David’s airport has “international” in its name, it primarily handles domestic connections to Panama City, requiring you to catch an international flight out of Tocumen International Airport (PTY) in Panama City. This could be a factor if someone requires specialized or emergency medical care only available in Panama City.
  • On the other hand, Costa Rica has scores of beautiful mountain towns and more than 500 named beaches spread across roughly 800 miles of coastline. The country’s Central Valley makes up more than a fifth of the country’s total landmass; stretches roughly from San Ramón in the west to Paraíso in the east; has nearly three-quarters of the nation’s population; and boasts year-round spring-like weather. In fact, the town of Atenas in the Central Valley is touted as having the best climate in the world by National Geographic.
  • Panama boasts of its perks for retired expats, but Costa Rica has similar discounts. Private hospitals give a 10% discount or more to seniors; most bus fares are 100% free for those over 65; pharmacies also offer discounts; and food is cheap once one gets settled and knows where to shop for bargains, like at farmers’ markets and take advantage of sales at supermarkets. Several of the latter enable customers to acquire bonus points which they can later exchange for food or merchandise.
  • Traditionally, Costa Rica is more politically stable, as a recent article in Yahoo News pointed out. Since 1948, when the army was officially abolished, the country has been more peaceful than its neighbor to the south. Only after the S. invasion ousted dictator Manuel Noriega in 1989 did Panamá reduce its military in 1994.
  • Panamanians have a reputation for not being as friendly as Costa Ricans. There is a lingering resentment among some Panamanians that remains from when the U.S. controlled the Canal Zone for 96 years, during which time many Panamanians were relegated to being second-class citizens. Human rights organizations placed the civilian death toll at up to 3,000 or more when the U.S. ousted dictator Manuel Noriega in 1989—which did not sit well with Panamanians either. Donald Trump’s rhetoric about the U.S. taking over control of the canal again most certainly angered some Panamanians.
  • If conflicts escalated between the United States and its adversaries, commerce passing through the canal could be affected adversely. As a result, Panama’s economy would be hurt since the canal is the main source of the nation’s income. Costa Rica is of no strategic importance.
  • Recently, severe droughts have reduced ship traffic through the canal because of the low water level.
  • Despite an official national narrative of Panama being a harmonious racial “melting pot,” Indigenous peoples and Afrodescendants face distinct challenges in daily life, economic mobility, and institutional treatment.”

Yes, the cost of living in Panamá is generally lower than Costa Rica’s, and the U.S. dollar is the official currency. However, Costa Rica’s quality of life is better. “Lo que algo vale, algo cuesta(Spanish translation for “You really get what you pay for”).

Finally, the author of this guide is a lover of Latin American culture and its peoples, and has explored every country there. So, if Panama were a better place to live than Costa, he most certainly would be living there.

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What would it mean if the United States were able to conduct ground operations in Costa Rica?

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Rico
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Q COSTA RICA — Costa Rica, known for its long-standing commitment to peace, abolished its military in 1948 and has since relied on diplomacy and civilian policing to maintain security.

Allowing U.S. ground operations on its soil would break with that tradition and carry implications far beyond the immediate tactical advantages.

Why are we talking about it?

The issue arose after President Laura Fernández stated in an interview with Reuters last week that potential U.S. ground operations would be “very beneficial” for Costa Rica’s security.

The possibility of the United States conducting ground operations in Costa Rica has sparked debate about the implications of allowing forces from another country to operate within its national territory.

Fernández explained that such cooperation could contribute to combating transnational crime, drug trafficking, and terrorism. She also revealed that a discussion about this possibility took place several months ago and that she explained to U.S. authorities the legal procedures that must be followed in Costa Rica.

“It would ​obviously be very good for national security if it were about pursuing a common objective ​against transnational crime, transnational drug trafficking, transnational terrorism,” Fernandez told Reuters ⁠when asked about the possibility of U.S. ground operations on Costa Rican soil.

Fernandez’s comments signal a willingness to collaborate more closely with the United States on defense matters, reflecting concerns about crime, drug trafficking, and other security threats in the region. While Costa Rica traditionally maintains a neutral stance without a standing army, this openness to U.S. military presence marks a notable shift in the country’s security policy.

Costa Rica and the ​U.S. have cooperated for years on security matters, including through joint maritime patrols. U.S. President Donald Trump invited ​Costa Rica to join his Shield of the Americas coalition, which is aimed at combating drug cartels.

Fernandez, who took office on May 8, campaigned on a tough anti-crime platform, vowing to restore order in Costa Rica, a ​country that has seen a spike in drug trafficking and violence in recent years. The homicide rate ​hit a record 17.2 per 100,000 inhabitants in 2023, double the rate of a decade ago.

However, the president clarified that no concrete operation is currently underway.

Daniel López, an expert in international relations, told Noticias Monumental that these types of actions between countries are common; however, he asserted that their scope and limits must be clearly defined to prevent violations of national sovereignty.

López pointed out that any potential ground cooperation does not mean that another country can operate freely within Costa Rica, and explained that some decisions would even have to be reviewed by the Legislative Assembly.

“Cooperation or submission? Cooperating is one thing; rolling out the red carpet for foreign operations is another”

Costa Rica and the United States currently maintain cooperation on security and counternarcotics, although any potential ground operation would have to adhere to the procedures and limits established by the country.

Costa Rica’s constitution strictly regulates foreign military presence within its borders. Any deployment of foreign troops, including those from the United States, demands explicit approval from the country’s Legislative Assembly.

Costa Rica depends on its civil police force instead of a military, so letting foreign troops operate on its soil is a very sensitive issue. Critics and experts in the region warn that this could signal a shift toward militarizing Central America.

President Fernández’s comments quickly spread across social media and caught the attention of major news organizations both at home and abroad.

 

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Business travel costs more than what appears on the bill

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Rico
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Q — Business travel expenses often go beyond what appears on the official invoice, according to insights shared by Revista Summa. Companies and travelers frequently underestimate the hidden costs tied to business trips, which can significantly inflate the total expenditure.

These extra costs include not just the obvious ones like transportation, lodging, and meals, but also less visible factors such as time lost during travel, inefficiencies in scheduling, and incidental expenses that don’t always get recorded in the main bill. For example, delays, last-minute changes, and the need for local transportation can escalate costs beyond the planned budget.

The article highlights that many companies fail to account for these additional expenses properly, leading to surprises in the overall financial impact of business travel. Awareness of these hidden costs is crucial for better travel budgeting and management, ensuring businesses can plan more accurately and avoid overspending.

In essence, while the invoice captures the direct costs, the real price of business travel often lies in the details that don’t make it onto the bill.

This understanding pushes companies to adopt more comprehensive strategies to track and control all travel-related expenses, helping them optimize spending and improve the efficiency of business trips.

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Coastal Property Prices Surge in Costa Rica: 85% of Residents Report Price Hikes

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Rico
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Q COSTA RICA — Vacationing on one of Costa Rica’s beaches no longer just involves considering the cost of fuel, food, or lodging. For a large majority of the population, consuming basic goods, finding accommodation, eating at restaurants, or even buying property in coastal areas is now considerably more expensive than it was years ago.

This is revealed in the report “Perceptions of the population in Costa Rica on tourism and real estate development in coastal communities,” (Percepciones de la población en Costa Rica sobre el desarrollo turístico e inmobiliario en las comunidades costeras) prepared by the Programa Interdisciplinario Costero (PIC) of the Instituto de Estudios Sociales en Población (Idespo) at the Universidad Nacional (UNA).

The results show that the perceived increase in cost affects practically all aspects related to living and daily life near the sea.

In the case of food and basic consumer goods, more than 80% of those interviewed believe that prices have increased. A similar perception exists for recreational activities, cafes and restaurants, hotel accommodations, cabins and Airbnb rentals, as well as public and private transportation, with percentages between 75% and 80%.

However, no sector generates such a high perception of price increases as the real estate market.

85% of those surveyed believe that the sale price of properties has increased in coastal areas.

The report specifically highlights what happened in Guanacaste.

“In the Costa Rican context, the transformations in the Guanacaste real estate market demonstrate excessive land value increases, registering up to 400% in land value between 2020 and 2023, due to financial speculation and land purchases by transnational capital,” the research states.

Construction grows after the pandemic

The changes are not limited to land prices. 63.9% of those surveyed perceive growth in real estate infrastructure in coastal regions, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic.

When asked about the types of construction that have increased the most, hotels and cabins account for over 50% of mentions, while luxury homes and condominiums account for over 40%.

This expansion contributes to a widespread sense of transformation.

45% of respondents believe that coastal areas have changed “a lot,” compared to 13.9% who believe the changes have been minimal.

The causes attributed to these transformations are diverse.

10.7% identify changes related to the economic impact and employment, 7.8% point to infrastructure development, 7.6% to increased tourism, and 6.5% to rising prices and the cost of living.

Another 10.6% say they perceive no changes, while 9.9% believe that “everything remains the same.”

The expansion of tourism is also reflected in the businesses that, according to the population, have gained ground.

For 66.4%, the main economic activity that has grown on the coasts is hotels. Restaurants come in second place, with a perception of over 50%, while supermarkets and shops remain below 20%.

“Taken together, these responses show that the population associates the recent transformations of coastal areas with changes in economic, tourism, and real estate activities,” the document concludes.

Despite the debate generated in recent years around real estate development on the Costa Rican coast, the concept of gentrification remains unknown to a significant portion of the population.

The study determined that 71.9% of respondents are unfamiliar with the term.

Educational level, however, makes a significant difference.

Among people with university degrees, around 62% report being familiar with the concept, while among those with incomplete secondary education or a lower level of education, the proportion drops to approximately 8%.

Among those who are familiar with the term, 27.8% associate gentrification with the “displacement of the local population by foreigners,” 19.9% ​​with the “purchase of properties by foreigners,” and 13.5% with “economic and social transformation.”

The perception of an increase in the foreign population is even more pronounced: 86.4% believe that the number of foreign residents in coastal areas has increased.

Research from the National University indicates that land prices in some areas of Guanacaste registered increases of up to 400% between 2020 and 2023.

More restrictions on accessing beaches

One of the most striking findings is related to access to the coastline.

44.3% of those interviewed believe that there are currently more limitations on accessing beaches, while another 16% assert that there are even places where access is prohibited.

The study also specifically analyzed the responses of those living in coastal communities.

47.9% indicated that they have resided in these areas for three decades, while only 10% stated that they had settled there within the last five years.

Regarding proximity to the sea, 82% live 400 meters or more from the shoreline, while only 7.3% reside less than 200 meters away.

The rising cost of living also appears to be impacting the decision of some families to remain in the area.

32.6% of the residents surveyed reported knowing at least one person or family who had left their home in a coastal area due to the high costs associated with tourism.

ICE and ICT Receive Higher Ratings

The research also inquired about the evaluation of public institutions present in these areas.

The Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE)—State power and Telecom—received the highest satisfaction rating, exceeding 80%, followed by the Instituto Costarricense de Turismo (ICT)—Tourism Board, which hovered around 70%.

At the opposite end of the spectrum are the Legislative Assembly and local governments, institutions that do not reach 30% approval.

Regarding water supply, approximately seven out of ten people report not facing access problems.

Among those who do report difficulties, 45% blame institutional neglect.

For the researchers, the results show that the Costa Rican coast is undergoing a transformation that cannot be analyzed solely in terms of tourism expansion.

The report defines the phenomenon as “complex, dynamic, and multidimensional,” involving a confluence of economic, tourism, real estate, social, and environmental factors.

Experts also consider it urgent to strengthen public policies that regulate these processes.

The researchers “highlight the urgent need to formulate and implement inclusive land-use planning policies that regulate real estate and tourism development.”

They also consider it necessary to guarantee binding community consultation processes, protect common goods—including public access to beaches—and ensure sustainable coverage of essential public services.

The survey was conducted between November 12 and 20, 2025, through 966 valid interviews. The study reports a maximum margin of error of 3.2 percentage points and a 95% confidence level.

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Imperial replaces its logo with words like “mae” and “pura vida”

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Rico
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Q COSTA RICA — Heineken Costa Rica will temporarily use words like “diay,” “mae,” “tuanis,” and “pura vida” on Imperial beer cans and glass packaging.

These expressions will occupy the space traditionally reserved for the Imperial logo on select Imperial and Imperial Light products.

The initiative is part of “Only Here Do We Understand Each Other Like This,” a campaign that recognizes everyday codes of Costa Rican identity.

“Words like ‘diay,’ ‘mae,’ ‘tuanis,’ and ‘pura vida’ have transcended their literal meaning to become symbols of identity and belonging,” said Fabián Loría, Heineken Costa Rica Marketing Manager.

The campaign will also include digital content, interactive spaces, and activations for people to share expressions they use daily.

The proposal seeks to highlight the meanings, stories, and ways of living together that these words represent among generations of Costa Ricans.

Heineken Costa Rica is the official name of the Dutch multinational’s consolidated operations in Central America, established after Heineken completely acquired the beverage, food, and retail business of Florida Ice and Farm Company (FIFCO) for approximately US$3.25 billion dollars.

Following regulatory approvals, the transition officially concluded on January 30, 2026, Heineken Costa Rica now directly controls over 50 prominent local and global brands. This includes Costa Rica’s iconic local beers Imperial and Pilsen, Bavaria, Tropical soft drinks, Ducal foods, and the omnipresent Musi and Musmanni convenience store and bakery chains.

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Daniel Ortega’s regime to Costa Rica: “We will not accept interference from other countries”

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Rico
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Q COSTA RICA — After asserting that Nicaragua’s affairs are the exclusive domain of its citizens and government, the Daniel Ortega regime indicated to Costa Rica that it will not accept foreign interference.

The neighboring country’s response comes after Costa Rica denounced a new attack against the opposition and democracy in Nicaragua.

Read more: Costa Rica expresses “deep concern” over democratic backsliding in Nicaragua

“Nicaragua is a dignified and sovereign country and people, and we do not accept the interference of others in our own affairs. We demand relations that take into account, as they should, the essential characteristics of our republics. (…) Friendly relations do not, in any way, allow us to interfere in matters that do not concern us, when they pertain to the right of each country to develop its sovereign institutional processes,” the Ortega regime stated.

 

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Costa Rica expresses “deep concern” over democratic backsliding in Nicaragua

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Rico
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Q COSTA RICA — Despite President Laura Fernández’s clear statement in an interview that she preferred not to interfere in Nicaragua’s internal affairs, on Thursday, September 3, the Costa Rican Foreign Ministry issued a press release expressing its “deep concern about the democratic deterioration” in the neighboring country.

Read more: Daniel Ortega’s regime to Costa Rica: “We will not accept interference from other countries”

This comes in response to a recent constitutional reform that further restricts political and electoral participation in Nicaragua.

“Costa Rica reiterates its call for respect for Human Rights, the Rule of Law, and the right of the Nicaraguan people to freely decide their future through electoral processes that guarantee pluralism and the conditions inherent to a genuine democracy,” the Foreign Ministry stated.

To denounce the situation, Costa Rica will support “a firm and coordinated response” within the framework of the Organization of American States (OAS) and at the upcoming Meeting of Foreign Ministers, convened to analyze this serious situation.

The Foreign Ministry’s statement comes a day after the United States increased pressure against the regime of Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo. The U.S. also called on allied countries to adopt a firmer stance against Managua.

On September 2, the Nicaraguan National Assembly, held in absolute control by the Sandinista National Liberation Front (FSLN) under the leadership of Ortega and Murillo,  unanimously approved a constitutional reform, promoted by President Ortega, that prevents opposition members from running for public office; in addition, the constitutional change also extends the current presidential term from six to seven years.

The change excludes from the elections those who participate in “coup plots,” “treason,” or who request foreign “military intervention.”

Nicaragua was scheduled to hold elections in November 2026, but the changes extended the presidential term, and elections are now planned for November 2027.

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ICE Earns More from Currency Fluctuations as Business Revenue Plummets 43%

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Rico
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Q COSTA RICA — The recent financial report from the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE)—state power and telecom utility—reveals a striking contrast between its reported profits and its core business performance.

Although the ICE announced a 65% increase in net profits—from ¢73.15 billion colones to ¢120.6 billion—this surge is largely attributed to massive gains from currency exchange fluctuations rather than its operational business activities.

Digging deeper, the financial statements show that ICE’s actual business revenues have taken a significant hit. Operating revenues dropped by 5% between 2024 and 2025, falling from ¢1,497 billion to ¢1.46 billion. Even more concerning is the reported 43% plunge in business earnings, a sharp decline that the sizable foreign exchange gains effectively mask in the headline profit figures.

The table indicates ICE’s earnings from business (negocios), exchange rate (tipo de cambio), and net earnings (ganancias netas) for the first halves of 2025 and 2026

This situation poses a complex challenge: while the institution’s bottom line appears robust thanks to favorable exchange rate movements, the underlying business health is deteriorating.

The reliance on currency fluctuations to bolster financial results raises questions about sustainability, especially since this dynamic is impacting private companies that contribute taxes and are essential to the broader economic ecosystem.

In short, the ICE’s impressive profit headlines conceal a deeper struggle within its core business operations—a warning sign that calls for close attention to the institution’s long-term financial stability and the wider economic implications for Costa Rica’s business environment.

Translated and curated from SemanarioUniveridad.com

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Montes de Oca plans building more apartment towers even as the canton is still flooded with fecal matter

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Rico
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Q COSTA RICA — The municipality of Montes de Oca (San Pedro), a major commercial, academic, and cultural hub on the eastern side of the San José metropolitan area,  plans to build more apartment towers in the canton even as residents continue to suffer from severe flooding caused by sewage overflow.

The establishment of hundreds of new apartments and commercial spaces, without proper urban planning, risks worsening the current flooding problems in neighborhoods already plagued by sewage contamination.

Local residents have raised serious concerns about the health and environmental impact of these floods, which bring raw sewage into streets and homes.

One affected neighbor described how every time it rains, not only does liquid sewage back up into homes, but solid waste and foul odors become an unbearable part of daily life.

Experts and community members warn that adding high-density housing without addressing the existing drainage and sewage infrastructure problems will only increase the frequency and severity of these public health hazards.

The lack of appropriate planning for these new developments risks turning floods into a chronic crisis, exposing more people to unsanitary conditions.

This situation highlights a critical gap between development ambitions and the urgent need for sustainable infrastructure solutions in the canton. Without immediate action to upgrade sewage and drainage systems, the push for more apartment towers could deepen the environmental and social challenges faced by the community.

For more details, see the full report at Semanario Universidad here. https://semanariouniversidad.com/pais/municipalidad-pretende-mas-torres-de-apartamentos-mientras-el-canton-aun-se-inunda-con-materia-fecal/

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Brasil de Santa Ana District Council urges MOPT to focus on upgrading the interchange

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Rico
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Q COSTA RICA — The Brasil de Santa Ana District Council is urging the Ministerio de Obras Públicas y Transportes (MOPT) to fast-track improvements at the Piedades interchange.

While the Council believes an overpass would be the ideal fix for this intersection—one that causes frustration for drivers and frequent accidents—they support and encourage transit officials to follow the recommendations outlined in report MOPT-03-05-01-204-2026 (Functional Analysis of the Roundabout in Brasil de Santa Ana, National Route No. 22).

“Our community needs real solutions to make travel safer and smoother for everyone,” the council shared on social media.

Besides Santa Ana, the cantons of Mora (Ciudad Colón) and Puriscal will also see benefits from these upgrades!

Screenshot

This is the third study conducted for the area. While an overpass would be a fantastic solution for the high traffic flow, a roundabout is the only formal proposal the MOPT has put forward to date.

 

While building an overpass means beginning again with a fresh technical study, the roundabout offers a faster fix, asking the MOPT to proceed with the plan already reviewed and approved by the technical experts.

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Attorney General’s Office takes drastic action to summon Pilar Cisneros

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Rico
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Q COSTA RICA — The Fiscalía General (Attorney General’s Office) confirmed it issued an immigration alert regarding presidential advisor and former legislator Pilar Cisneros, needing to summon her for an investigative statement and it had been unable to serve her notice at her home or by phone.

This is the same stunt Minister and Former President Rodrigo Chaves used recently, couldn’t be found anywhere in Casa Presidencial to be served a summons.

For Chaves, slipping past immigration controls would be tough. His boisterous personality, recognizable face, and immunity would make it nearly impossible.

When it came to Cisneros, the Fiscalía meant business. The Attorney General’s Office said it tried to locate Pilar Cisneros seven times before issuing an immigration alert; Officials went to Cisneros’s registered residence on August 6 and 17, and on one of those occasions, a person told them that the former legislator no longer lived there.

The Fiscalía added that on August 20, it made three calls to three phone numbers registered in Cisneros’s name and a fourth call answered by a man who identified himself as her husband. He indicated that the former legislator was out of the country and provided another number to contact her, as well as stating when she would return to Costa Rica.

The Fiscalía stated that five days later, on August 25, one day after the date the man had indicated for Cisneros’s return, they called that number. However, according to the official account, another person answered the call and indicated that the former legislator was unavailable.

The alert was cancelled after the summons was issued. This came after Cisneros crossed the gates to Casa Presidencial to be served in front of the press.

The case against Cisneros originated from evidence from the main case, 22-000116-1218-PE, in which the Fiscalía filed charges against former President Rodrigo Chaves Robles and former Vice President Stephan Brunner Neibig. According to the Fiscalía, it opened the parallel case after five individuals under investigation lost their immunity from prosecution.

The Fiscalía says the summons is to compel Cisneros to appear for questioning in the case concerning the allegedly irregular financing of the presidential campaign that led Rodrigo Chaves to electoral victory in 2022.

In addition to Cisneros, the case also involves individuals with the surnames André, Alpízar, Agüero, and Nájera. The Fiscalía indicated that all of them had already been summoned and questioned.

Pilar Cisneros Gallo

Pilar Cisneros is a renowned Costa Rican journalist and political figure of Peruvian origin. For decades, she was one of the country’s most influential communicators, particularly noted for her work as co-director of the Telenoticias news program on Channel 7.

In 2022, she entered electoral politics and was elected as a member of the National Assembly representing the province of San José for the 2022-2026 term, serving as the leader of the Social Democratic Progress Party (PPSD) caucus.

Her political career has been intrinsically linked to President Rodrigo Chaves, establishing a powerful and highly visible partnership in Costa Rican politics.  In the 2022 campaign, Cisneros was instrumental in Chaves’ political rise. Political analysts point out that prior to her involvement, the vast majority of voters did not know Chaves. Her credibility as a former investigative journalist helped open doors to popular sectors, acting as a crucial bridge for his presidential victory.

Pilar Cisneros transitioned into a formal role as the Ad Honorem Communication Advisor to the Government of Costa Rica following the conclusion of her legislative term in May 2026.

 

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“Diablo” sister and 3 judicials under arrest for impunity, bribery, and corruption

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Rico
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Q COSTA RICA — The Deputy Prosecutor’s Office for Probity, Transparency, and Anti-Corruption (FAPTA) requested six months of pretrial detention (remand) for Judge Ricardo Valverde López and a woman, Gelen Magaly Arias Monge, sister of Alejandro Arias Monge, alias “Diablo.”

For an Organismo de Investigación Judicial agent (Rojas) and another judge (Ramírez), they requested suspension from their positions, periodic reporting to the court, a travel ban, and a restraining order prohibiting them from approaching witnesses or the Pococí Criminal Court.

These precautionary measures were requested after evaluating the specific legal situation of each defendant.

The Public Prosecutor’s Office presented the request during the hearing on precautionary measures before the Criminal Court on Wednesday, following the arrests on Tuesday as part of the investigation into their alleged ties to the criminal organization led by Alejandro Arias Monge, alias “Diablo”, one of the most wanted criminals for the last decade and who is currently in preventive detention following his arrest last month.

The Prosecutor’s Office accuses the two judges and the OIJ agent of the alleged crimes of facilitating impunity, bribery, corruption, and misuse of public funds, supposedly committed between 2023 and 2026. During this period, they allegedly used their positions to favor members of Diablo’s organization in the case known as “Colorado.”

The Prosecutor’s Office is investigating Gelen Arias Monge for her alleged participation in these same events and for her close ties to her brother’s inner circle.

Gelen is identified as the new leader of the organization following her brother’s arrest and the death of Randall Delgado Mora, alias “Mister Muscle.”

With the request for pretrial detention, the Public Prosecutor’s Office seeks to ensure the integrity of the legal process while the analysis of the evidence gathered so far continues. This evidence includes intercepted communications, the lifting of bank secrecy for Valverde and Rojas, and the study of the couple’s increased wealth.

The Court will have to decide whether to accept the requested measure or whether to issue an alternative to pretrial detention for the four suspects.

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Deference or transparency? Fernández calls Chaves “president” live on air

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Rico
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Q COSTA RICA — President Laura Fernández referred to former president and minister Rodrigo Chaves as “president” Wednesday afternoon during the live broadcast of the weekly government news program, later justifying her continued use of the title for the leader of the political movement that brought her to power in the February elections.

After nearly four months demonstrating the considerable power wielded by Chaves, who formally serves as Minister of Finance and Minister of the Presidency, the president addressed him as “president” in what appeared to be a spontaneous remark, preceded by a smile, before attempting to clarify the situation.

You caught that, eh!

“You all noticed that I called Mr. Rodrigo ‘President.’ And to avoid any sensationalism, I will continue to call him ‘President’; I will always respect him as the great president he was, and I am honored that he is part of my team, just as he occasionally calls me ‘Minister’ or ‘Jefa (boss),’” Fernández remarked, recalling that she served as Minister of Planning and Minister of the Presidency between 2022 and 2026.

Immediately afterward, the cabinet was seen applauding, with Chaves in the front row.

Fernández also didn’t shy away from mentioning one of the media outlets she often identifies as an adversary. “Before fueling the sensationalism, I want to clarify this, because when people focus more on egos than results, this could be a headline tomorrow,” she said, finishing with a laugh and trying to end the moment by taking a question from a journalist.

Click here to see the video of the live broadcast from Casa Presidencial

This occurred after a journalist asked Fernández a question about a Constitutional Chamber ruling regarding the appointment of union representatives to the board of directors of the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS).

The president immediately called Rodrigo Chaves to the microphone for a “political focus,” which allowed for one of the former president’s customary bombastic speeches against the Judiciary and opposition parties.

This is not the first time Fernández has referred to the man who handed over the presidential seat to her as “president” on May 8th. It has also happened with other government figures and in media outlets aligned with the political movement.

Despite this, in interviews Fernández has reaffirmed her role as head of state. “I am the only President. There is no two-headed government here. What I have by my side, thank God, is an extraordinary economist who was president and who is also the founder of this movement,” she said in an interview.

As Minister of the Presidency, Chávez wields the powers of chief of staff, government spokesperson, and liaison with various sectors and the Legislative Assembly. As Minister of Finance, he controls the budget. As leader of the ‘Chavista’ movement, however, he exerts power beyond the formal realm and maintains a frequent presence at Fernández’s activities.

Many of the current ministers and pro-government deputies are under his direct influence, although he often claims to be Fernández’s subordinate and his “humble Minister of Finance.”

A slip of the tongue—also known as a parapraxis or Freudian slip- President Laura may have unintentionally exposed her hidden thoughts or desires. At the very least, it’s giving fuel to the ‘chismes’ (gossip) that Rodrigo is the one pulling the strings.

Not common in Costa Rica to keep calling someone by their highest official title

The practice of continuing to address individuals by their “highest rank in office” for life—even after they have retired, stepped down, or left service—is standard protocol in the United States.

Costa Ricans generally do not use this. Instead, Costa Rican society is profoundly egalitarian and informal when it comes to political authority. Once a politician or public servant leaves office, they return to civilian status and are typically addressed by standard societal honorifics or academic degrees rather than a permanent political rank.

For general respect towards older individuals, superiors, or neighbors, Costa Ricans use the traditional honorifics Don (for men) or Doña (for women) paired exclusively with the person’s first name (e.g., Don Rodrigo, Doña Laura). This signals warmth and respect.

Rather than tracking political or administrative ranks, Costa Ricans place higher daily emphasis on earned academic and professional designations, such as Licenciado / Licenciada for anyone holding a professional university degree, Ingeniero / Ingeniera for engineers, Profesor / Profesora for educators, etc.

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Triathlete Victoria Arce wins silver in Peru and aims for the World Championships and Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games

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Q COSTA RICA — Costa Rican Victoria Arce won the silver medal at the Americas Triathlon Junior Cup, held in Lima, Peru, after completing the race in 1:05:48 and delivering one of the day’s standout performances.

The competition was a sprint format, consisting of a 750-meter swim, an 18.7-kilometer bike ride, and a 5-kilometer run.

Arce started strong, exiting the water first and maintaining her position within the leading group during the cycling segment.

The race was decided on the run. Ecuadorian Manuela Ortega made her move in the final five kilometers, securing the gold medal with a time of 1:05:16.

Arce crossed the finish line in second place, while fellow Ecuadorian Renata Oña completed the podium with a time of 1:06:21.

The result came after an international experience that began weeks before the competition.

The Costa Rican athlete was part of Team Americas and participated in a Pan American triathlon development camp that brought together 23 athletes and eight coaches from 11 national federations.

The program lasted almost three weeks and included activities in Paraguay and Peru, combining training, competition, and development for young triathletes from across the continent.

The Asunción Regional Development Cup was one of the first competitions in this process, while the events held in Lima served as the camp’s closing event.

For Arce, this journey meant sharing training and competition sessions with athletes from different countries before facing them again at the Junior Cup.

The Costa Rican athlete also already has experience in this type of competition.

In 2025, she finished third in the Americas Triathlon Junior Cup in Iquique, Chile, with a time of 1:07:01.

Now, Arce’s schedule focuses on two key events for her season.

The first will be the World Championships in Pontevedra, Spain, from September 23 to 27.

After that comes the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, which will be held from October 31 to November 13 in Senegal.

With these two challenges on the horizon, Victoria Arce continues to make steady progress and raise Costa Rica’s profile in international triathlon.

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Two judges and an OIJ official arrested for alleged ties to a group linked to alias “Diablo”

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Rico
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Q COSTA RICA — The Costa Rican Prosecutor’s Office has ordered the detention of two judges and an official from the Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ) due to suspected links with a criminal group connected to the notorious Alejandro Arias Monge, alias “Diablo.”

The suspects were identified only by their last names: Ramírez, Valverde, and Rojas. According to the information released, Ramírez and Valverde are judges at the Pococí Criminal Court, while Rojas is an official with the OIJ, as reported by La Nación.

The arrests form part of a wider crackdown against the criminal network allegedly involved in various illegal activities, including homicides and drug trafficking, in particular the so-called Colorado Case, an investigation developed since 2023 against people close to and relatives of “Diablo”.

According to information published by La Nación, Judges Ramírez and Valverde allegedly handled cases related to this file at different times. In the operation carried out in 2023, authorities arrested Arias Monge’s sister, as well as her then-partner and other people close to her.

Read more: Costa Rica could face increasingly younger criminal leaders if it doesn’t break the cycle of violence, warns expert

Among those arrested were a woman surnamed Jiménez Villalobos, identified as the romantic partner of alias “Diablo”; Marín Jiménez, her sister; and a man surnamed Delgado, known as “Mr. Músculo” who had previously worked as an agent of the OIJ.

Mr. Músculo was injured during a shootout with the OIJ in the early hours of September 2, 2026, and died hours later in hospital despite efforts to save him.

This move by Costa Rican authorities highlights ongoing efforts to dismantle the influence of organized crime within state institutions and the judiciary, which has raised serious concerns about corruption and collusion.

The case is one among several recent actions targeting the group, which also faces charges related to contract killings and narcotics operations.

The Prosecutor’s Office’s aggressive stance underscores the urgency with which Costa Rican law enforcement is addressing these deep-rooted criminal networks to restore public trust and security.

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Costa Rica could face increasingly younger criminal leaders if it doesn’t break the cycle of violence, warns expert

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Rico
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Q COSTA RICA — The police offensive against organized crime in Costa Rica may lead to arrests, seizures, and temporary weakening of criminal structures, but it will hardly be able to definitively stop the violence if the country does not address the conditions that allow for the recruitment of new members.

Karen Jiménez Morales, head of the Police Science program at the Universidad Estatal a Distancia (UNED) — National Distance Learning University, issued the warning, alerting authorities to a particularly worrying trend: the growing presence of younger people in criminal organizations and leadership positions.

“The reality is that arresting ringleaders doesn’t solve the problem of violence on its own. New leaders emerge, and the worrying thing is that, according to the trend we’re observing, they are increasingly younger,” Jiménez explained.

The expert maintains that police operations remain essential to contain the activities of groups involved in homicides, drug trafficking, and other criminal activities, but she believes that these actions must be accompanied by sustained social prevention measures.

The problem, she explained, arises when an organization loses one of its leaders but maintains the conditions that facilitate the arrival of new members. In such cases, the power vacuum can quickly become an opportunity for someone else to assume leadership.

According to the expert, this dynamic can cause Costa Rica to remain trapped in a cycle where authorities capture ringleaders, while new generations join criminal organizations.

“We are not going to stop it simply with police pressure, increasing sentences, or creating more prison space,” she stated.

For Jiménez, one of the main challenges lies precisely in preventing state intervention from occurring only when criminal structures are already consolidated.

A police operation can arrest individuals linked to serious crimes and temporarily disrupt an organization’s operations, but if the social factors that encourage recruitment remain, others can fill those positions.

The phenomenon takes on an even more delicate dimension when those joining these groups are teenagers and youths.

The criminologist believes that, beyond asking who will replace a particular criminal leader, the country must analyze why a young person would be willing to assume that role and what social, familial, or economic factors are facilitating that decision.

“If we only intervene when a young person is already part of a criminal organization, we are arriving too late. Prevention has to begin much earlier, within communities, families, schools, and through the opportunities that we as a society are able to offer,” she stated.

 

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Is the honeymoon with Laura Fernández over after 100 days?

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Rico
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Q COSTA RICA — When Laura Fernández took office as Costa Rica’s president on May 8, the air was filled with hope and optimism.

But as the days rolled on, cracks started to show in the early enthusiasm surrounding her leadership. Having just passed the 100 days in office mark, the mood is shifting; President Laura Fernández’s honeymoon with Costa Rican citizens appears to be fading.

Data from the Digital Communication Observatory of the Latin University of Costa Rica (ULatina) highlights that, when analyzing the online conversation, the majority of mentions surrounding the president are negative.

“Laura Fernández began her term with a particularly favorable digital environment compared to that recorded by her predecessor, Rodrigo Chaves, during the equivalent period in 2022. As the months progressed, this initial assessment underwent adjustments in its composition, with a greater presence of critical mentions, in a context where the public agenda also expanded and diversified,” the research indicates.

Critics point to a series of stalled initiatives, bureaucratic delays, and a perceived lack of urgency in addressing urgent issues like rising inflation and public security concerns.

As of August 26, Fernández registered 41.6% positive comments, while negative comments reached 42.8%. The remaining 15.6% were neutral.

The study was conducted between May 1 and August 16, 2026, on social media, news sites, blogs, and other publicly accessible online spaces.

The research conducted by ULatina, with support from Kantar IBOPE Media, analyzed 832,944 mentions on social media platforms such as Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), news sites, YouTube, and Instagram.

So, is the honeymoon really over for Laura Fernández?

Though it’s too early to declare her presidency a failure, according to ULatina, the evolution of the digital conversation coincided with a shift in the topics that captured digital attention. The first few weeks were primarily marked by the start of the administration, appointments, and initial management decisions; Subsequently, differences between institutions, particularly between the Executive and Judicial branches, as well as other issues specific to the national situation, gained greater prominence.

“From a political-communicational perspective, this behavior reflects the transition from an initial stage of the new government’s establishment to a phase of greater exposure, scrutiny, and thematic diversity. The Executive branch continued to have a significant presence in generating matters of public interest, while the digital conversation progressively incorporated a wider variety of positions and assessments,” the report stated.

The document can be downloaded for free at the following link: https://www.ulatina.ac.cr/area-de-investigacion/grupos-de-investigacion/observatorio/reportes/35

Furthermore, security and the dynamics between public institutions were the main topics of the digital political conversation during the first 100 days of the Fernández administration.

The largest spike in online conversation occurred around Operacion Nemesis, the historic and massive police deployment carried out by the Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ) – the same agency under attack by Fernández — in July 2026 and the capture of the individuals known as “Diablo” and “Tan,” exceeding 40,000 mentions.

Two other events approached or surpassed 30,000 mentions: the incident involving an explosive device during the presidential tour of Crucitas and Minister Rodrigo Chaves’s statements expressing fears of a dictatorship.

According to the analysis, after each of these events, the volume of conversation quickly returned to lower levels.

Despite Fernández’s situation, the study indicates that the President has the most favorable balance, with approximately 1.4 positive comments for every negative one. In contrast, the President of the Legislative Assembly, Yara Jiménez, registered nearly 2 negative comments for every positive one, while the President of the Supreme Court of Justice, Orlando Aguirre, had a ratio of approximately 6.5 negative comments for every positive one.

The coming months will test President Fernández’s ability to navigate political headwinds, rally support, and prove that the promise she made to Costa Rica was more than just campaign rhetoric.

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Costa Rica was filled with music, color, and Afro-descendant pride at the Grand Gala Parade 2026

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Rico
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Q COSTA RICA — Costa Rica commemorated Día de la Persona Negra y la Cultura Afrocostarricense (Black People’s Day and Afro-Costa Rican Culture Day) on Monday, August 31st, a date officially established by law that recognizes the heritage, legacy, and contributions of the Afro-descendant population to the national identity.

One of the main centers of the celebration was the province of Limón, where the Grand Gala Parade 2026 wound through the streets of the central canton starting at 11:30 a.m., accompanied by calypso music, dance troupes, traditional costumes, and cultural activities. Some families even arrived hours early to secure a spot along the parade route.

The event transformed downtown Limón into a showcase of Afro-Caribbean culture, with the participation of residents from the province and visitors from other parts of the country. The program also included gastronomy, art, and social gatherings, while the parade once again solidified its position as one of the most visible symbols of this national commemoration.

The celebration is also part of the Historical Month of Afro-descendants, officially declared in Costa Rica, and seeks not only to celebrate the cultural richness of this population but also to highlight its historical, social, and economic contributions to the country.

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Costa Rica inaugurates its first laboratory for manufacturing medicinal cannabis medicines

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Rico
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Q COSTA RICA — Costa Rica now has its first medicinal cannabis manufacturing laboratory, marking a significant shift for the sector by enabling the transition from exporting raw materials to producing finished medications.

This facility, located in El Guarco, Cartago, and developed by Vantage Point Global, aims to supply the domestic market and export destinations such as Germany, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.

The laboratory was inaugurated in a context where the local medicinal cannabis industry still faces regulatory and political challenges.

According to the company, the project could generate up to 420 jobs once it reaches full development. Currently, the operation already has 85 active employees in one of the production areas, while the expansion of new lines within the farm and laboratories is planned, as explained by General Manager Jorge Calderón in statements reported by El Observador.

The plant is intended for the manufacture of concentrates, oils, syrups, and pills made from cannabis sativa. Calderón noted that, with this infrastructure, the company can cultivate under the highest quality standards, process the product, and offer finished medications for both local consumption and export.

Regulatory Obstacles for the Medicinal Cannabis Industry in Costa Rica

Calderón indicated that the main challenge facing the operation is not technical, but rather stems from the current regulatory framework. According to his analysis, Law No. 10,113, which regulates cannabis for medicinal and therapeutic use and hemp for food and industrial use, has loopholes that hinder the registration of pharmaceutical products in the country.

This situation limits the marketing of medications in Costa Rica, although it does allow exports to international markets.

Legislator and former Vice-president Stephan Brunner shared this view while attending the laboratory’s inauguration. Brunner explained that the main difficulties for the project have been related to permits and legal aspects, not to agricultural or pharmaceutical processes. He emphasized the company’s continued presence in the country, considering the slow implementation of the law passed four years ago.

The company believes that the opening of the laboratory is a first step for Costa Rica to move toward the national production of finished cannabis-based medicines, although it acknowledges that the evolution of the regulatory framework will be crucial for the sector’s definitive growth.

First Laboratory and Export: Immediate and Future Impact

The first official export of medicinal cannabis was on March 13. The shipment, destined for Europe, was carried out in accordance with Costa Rican legislation for medicinal and therapeutic cannabis and met the requirements established by the European Union.

This achievement is considered an opportunity for Costa Rica to access new markets and be valued for the quality and certifications of its medicinal cannabis production.

Jorge Calderón emphasized that this first shipment highlights the country’s technical capacity to adapt to the demands of new agricultural and medical activities. He noted that this is the first time a Costa Rican agricultural product has also been classified as a medical raw material and must comply with international standards for export.

The new plant aims to cover the entire production process, from cultivation to manufacturing and distribution of finished medications. The sector’s progress could contribute to the diversification of the national economy in the pharmaceutical and agricultural fields, while regulatory developments are expected to accompany the growth of the medicinal cannabis industry in the country.

 

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Current forecasts suggest there’s more than a 60% chance that the current El Niño will develop into a super El Niño

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Rico
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Q COSTA RICA — El Niño, the climate phenomenon marked by the warming of Pacific Ocean waters, has a significant impact on Costa Rica’s weather patterns and environment.

Typically, during an El Niño event, Costa Rica experiences drier than normal conditions, especially in the Pacific region.

This shift leads to reduced rainfall, which can exacerbate drought conditions, threaten water supplies, and increase the risk of wildfires.

Sometimes, this warming intensifies into what is called a “super El Niño,” a rare event marked by ocean temperatures rising about 2°C above normal—a level roughly two standard deviations beyond typical variability.

This escalation to a super El Niño involves complex interactions between ocean and atmospheric conditions. Key factors include sustained and amplified warm sea surface temperatures, changes in wind patterns such as weakened trade winds, and feedback loops that reinforce ocean warming.

These dynamics can be triggered or intensified by events like twin cyclones that disrupt normal ocean-atmosphere systems. The result is an unusually strong El Niño event that significantly influences global weather patterns.

Super El Niños have historically been rare, with only a few recorded in modern times, such as those in 1982-83 and 1997-98. When they occur, they tend to drive extreme weather conditions worldwide—droughts in regions like the Amazon, fires in Indonesia, floods in Peru, and shifts in jet streams that affect weather far beyond the Pacific.

Current forecasts suggest a high chance—over 60%—that the ongoing El Niño could evolve into a super El Niño.

This development would likely push global average temperatures higher by a few tenths of a degree and amplify climate disruptions across the globe. The phenomenon is unfolding amid a backdrop of human-driven climate warming, which increases ocean heat content and could intensify El Niño’s impacts even further.

Understanding how an El Niño becomes a super El Niño helps scientists prepare for and mitigate the wide-reaching consequences of these powerful climate events, emphasizing the need for global awareness and adaptive strategies in response to a changing climate landscape.

Read a more in-depth explanation of the “super El Niño” at The Conversation, the source for this article.

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Spiking Drug Violence Triggers Major Political Upheaval in Costa Rica

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Rico
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Q — Costa Rica is grappling with a sharp surge in drug-related violence that has shaken the country’s political landscape. Over the past few years, homicides have soared by 50% since 2020, pushing Costa Rica’s murder rate to levels comparable with Mexico’s, a country long plagued by cartel violence.

This alarming rise in violent crime has triggered a political earthquake, unsettling the traditionally peaceful Central American nation that has long been seen as a bastion of stability in the region.

The spike in drug violence is largely attributed to the growing presence and operations of drug trafficking organizations within Costa Rica, leveraging its strategic geographic position as a transit point for narcotics moving north to the United States.

The increase in violent confrontations among rival criminal groups, as well as clashes with law enforcement, has contributed to the escalating death toll.

This surge in crime has ignited public outcry and intense political debate, forcing the government to confront the challenge with new urgency. The violence has not only undermined public safety but also threatened Costa Rica’s image as a peaceful tourist destination and its broader democratic stability.

Authorities are under pressure to implement more effective security measures and tackle the root causes of the violence, including corruption and the social conditions that enable organized crime to thrive.

The political fallout from this crisis is profound, as leaders struggle to respond to citizen demands for safety while managing the complex dynamics of drug trafficking networks operating within their borders.

Costa Rica’s experience is a stark reminder of how drug violence can rapidly destabilize even those countries that have historically avoided the worst of the region’s security crises, altering the political and social fabric in profound ways.

Source: Wall Street Journal

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