Costa Rica Considers Salvadoran-Inspired Response to Crime Surge

Costa Rica, traditionally known for its laidback environmental tourism, is now facing a surge in violence prompting President Rodrigo Chaves to introduce tough new legislation to combat crime, inspired by El Salvador's draconian measures. The spike in homicides has been attributed to gang warfare among cocaine traffickers, exacerbated by social discontent and unemployment during the COVID-19 pandemic. While Chaves' proposals face opposition in Congress, including concerns about violating individual rights, the country is grappling with the need for a shift in its traditionally gentler approach to crime prevention in the face of rising crime rates.