Tourist’s Paradise vs. Local’s Reality
Costa Rica, often flaunted as a “green paradise” with sprawling nature reserves and no military, is under scrutiny as its tranquil image is starkly contrasted by the actual experiences of its citizens. In spots like the Cahuita National Park on the southern Caribbean coast, foreign tourists, like Spanish visitor Marta Rodrigo, are enamored by the abundant natural beauty. Yet, a walk through downtown San Jose tells a different story of increasing poverty, unemployment, and inflation.
An Urban Crisis Unfolding
San Jose’s downtown paints a grim picture. “Every few blocks, a person is passed out on the street,” echoes the sentiment of local shopkeepers like Alba Iris Murillo. The challenges of unemployment are further intensified by a rising immigrant population, leading to stiffer competition for jobs.
Myth vs. Reality: Costa Rica’s Peace Paradigm
While Costa Rica’s decision to abolish its military in 1948 may seem emblematic of a peaceful nation, University of Costa Rica expert Adrian Pignataro debunks this perception. Citing domestic turbulence, he points to a concerning rise in the femicide rate and street violence. The country has also witnessed a 40% spike in homicides over the past year, making safety a prime concern for citizens like Eduardo Alvarado.
Rodrigo Chaves: The Polarizing President
The election of Rodrigo Chaves, an ex-World Bank executive with an admiration for former US President Donald Trump, has further stirred the pot. His confrontational style and aggressive policies targeting corruption, the economy, and crime have seen both massive support and stark criticism. Chaves’s high approval ratings contrast with claims of him stoking divisions and promoting fake news, leading to an alarming rise in online hate speech and discrimination in Costa Rica.
The Underlying Economic Disparity
Political scientist Rotsay Rosales underscores a significant shift in Costa Rica’s economic dynamics. Once celebrated for its wealth distribution, the country now grapples with rampant inequality, setting the stage for strongman politics. Despite this, the global perception of Costa Rica as a peaceful and green sanctuary remains largely intact, even as the ground realities threaten to undermine this facade.
