Costa Rica in the Mirror of Human Rights: FUNDEPRODE Announces Historic Renewal
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-assessment regarding the current state and implementation 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 within this context of emerging challenges that the Foundation for the Protection and Promotion of Human Rights (FUNDEPRODE) has today announced a comprehensive restructuring of its management and advocacy model.
A Necessary Assessment: Highlights and Shadows
When evaluating Costa Rica’s current situation, experts point out that civil society faces unprecedented tensions. Protecting vulnerable populations and addressing the intersection between the business sector and fundamental rights remain outstanding challenges. In light of this reality, traditional activism must evolve toward technical and sustainable proposals.
Strategic Renewal: Consulting and Human Rights Due Diligence
In response to this need, FUNDEPRODE has formalized its transformation into a new Human Rights Due Diligence Consulting Agency. This strategic shift aims to implement the UN 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 a requirement for regulatory compliance.
Impact Agenda: The First Human Rights Political Debate
As part of this relaunch, the foundation announced an ambitious advocacy agenda that includes organizing high-level events.
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 transformation.
"Costa Rican democracy is undergoing profound moments of transformation, and human rights are the guiding tools for societies in times of transition like these. We must not forget that the very purpose of a democratic society is the freedom and equitable development of its citizens," stated González.
With this new roadmap, FUNDEPRODE aims 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.
