The Historical Roots of Contemporary Costa Rica’s Dilemma with Democracy

Title: The Historical Roots of Contemporary Costa Rica’s Dilemma with Democracy

Costa Rica has long prided itself on its commitment to democracy, security, social justice, and a fair distribution of wealth. Setting aside racist or mythical explanations, the Costa Rica uniqueness stemmed from a combination of geographical and sociological conditions. But the present seems to be strongly questioning Costa Rica uniqueness. During 2023, the homicide rate (ranked 5 or 12 per 100,000) was the biggest of this nation. This is an alarming data in a country that traditionally is presented as democratic and peaceful; although that characterization is easily contested, Costa Rica had successfully constructed a political-stable system with lofty standards in social security, public education, and social integration. What is changing Costa Rica? Is it still a different country? Does it have a future? This paper will bring answers to those questions from a historical perspective. I will explore what made Costa Rica different after political independence and the key aspects of its particular socio-political integration within Central America’s context. Then, I will evaluate how neoliberal politics has politically, socially, and culturally transformed the nation and its consequences to social inequality and democracy