Costa Rica: Analysis of Feelings towards the Future and Actions for Prosperity
Discover the concerns, hopes and actions necessary for a prosperous future in Costa Rica. An eye-opening study shows how dialogue and action are key to addressing current challenges.
A recent study titled “In First Person: The Future We Want!” carried out by the United Nations System in Costa Rica with the support of the specialized company COES has revealed that the Costa Rican population longs for a prosperous future and, to this end, demands dialogue and immediate action to face the country’s main challenges.
The study, which analyzed publications on social networks during the last year, showed that 41% of the publications that talk about the future of the country express concern, 43% tranquility and 16% hope. When observing the current perception of the country, 45% express concern, 49% calm and 6% hope.
Main Findings
Mixed Feelings:
Concern: 41% of publications about the future of the country.
Tranquility: 43% of publications.
Hope: 16% of posts.
Current Perception
Concern: 45% of posts.
Tranquility: 49% of publications.
Hope: 6% of posts.
Key Challenges
Security: Drug trafficking and violence towards women are prominent concerns.
Politics: Electoral issues, corruption and freedom of expression demand attention.
Economy: Unemployment, the exchange rate and the cost of living are the main issues of concern.
Health: Social security coverage, timely medical care and mental health are critical areas.
Diversity and Inclusion: Rights of the LGBTIQ+ population and people with disabilities.
Environment: Access to water, climate change and gentrification.
Recommendations and Actions
Allegra Baiocchi, UN Resident Coordinator in Costa Rica , highlighted the need to pay attention to people’s aspirations and concerns, establishing listening mechanisms and creating spaces for the exchange of ideas. Additionally, she stressed the importance of geographically differentiated approaches and the inclusion of women in relevant conversations.
Regional and Demographic Data
- Central Valley: Tranquility and hope predominate.
- Limón and Puntarenas: Greater concern (60% and 58%, respectively).
- Carthage: 53% concern.
- San José: 49% concerned.
In addition, it was identified that women tend to be more positive and hopeful about the future, compared to men who show greater concern.
Futuristic Events
The presentation of these findings took place during the “Future Dialogues,” organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Planning and the UN in Costa Rica, in preparation for the Future Summit to be held in September in New York. This event seeks solutions to global challenges such as wars, pandemics, climate change, biodiversity loss and inequalities.
Preparation for Costa Rica ‘s work agenda will include workshops, forums and conversations focused on areas such as youth participation, the transformation of education and a global digital pact, using artificial intelligence to identify challenges and opportunities expressed by the population on social networks. .
This groundbreaking study not only reflects the concerns and hopes of Costa Ricans, but also underscores the urgency of continued dialogue and concrete actions to ensure a prosperous and equitable future for all.
