Costa Rica in the Mirror of Human Rights: FUNDEPRODE Announces Historic Renewal and the Country's First Thematic Political Debate
SAN JOSÉ, COSTA RICA — On the occasion of International Human Rights Day, a date when the world commemorates the adoption of the Universal Declaration in 1948, Costa Rica is undertaking a critical self-examination regarding the validity and application of these fundamental guarantees. Although the country remains a regional benchmark, contemporary challenges related to inequality, security, and access to justice demand new strategies.
It is in this context of emerging challenges that the Foundation for the Protection and Promotion of Human Rights (FUNDEPRODE), under its new executive leadership, has today announced a comprehensive restructuring of its management and advocacy model.
A Necessary Balance: Lights and Shadows
In assessing the current situation in Costa Rica, experts point out that the social fabric is facing unprecedented tensions. The protection of vulnerable populations and the intersection between the business sector and fundamental rights remain pending challenges. Faced with this reality, traditional activism must evolve toward technical and sustainable proposals.
Strategic Renewal: Consultancy and Due Diligence
In response to this need, FUNDEPRODE has formalized its transformation into a new Human Rights Due Diligence Consulting Agency. This strategic shift seeks to implement the Guiding Principles within the national ecosystem, ensuring that both public and private actors integrate respect for human rights not only as an ethical ideal but as an operational standard and regulatory compliance requirement.
Impact Agenda: The First Human Rights Political Debate
As part of this relaunch, the foundation announced an ambitious advocacy agenda that includes organizing three high-level events. The most prominent will be the country’s first-ever exclusive political debate on Human Rights.
This event will seek to ensure political actors define clear stances and concrete proposals on the issue, moving away from empty rhetoric and toward tangible commitments. This milestone will be complemented by two additional events focused on mass communication and specialized training, consolidating the organization as a bridge between civil society and decision-makers.
The Vision of a New Era
Hermez González, President of FUNDEPRODE, emphasized the urgency of this institutional evolution during the official announcement. González stressed that inertia is not an option in times of global change.
"Costa Rican democracy is undergoing profound moments of transformation, and human rights are the guiding tools for peoples during transitions like these. We cannot forget that the very purpose of a democratic society is the freedom and equitable development of its citizens," declared González.
With this new roadmap, FUNDEPRODE seeks to position itself not only as an observer of the national reality but as a key actor in building structural solutions for a more just and equitable Costa Rica.
