Latin America Advisor

Gabriela Jiménez, former ambassador of Costa Rica to Mexico: “Costa Rica’s position as a key transshipment point for cocaine is due to its geographic location and, in part, to a lack of recent investment in security. The last government with a clear strategy to combat narcotrafficking was that of President Laura Chinchilla (2010-2014). Her administration focused on bolstering security and working closely with international partners, particularly the United States, to address the growing threat. However, subsequent governments have not maintained the same level of focus on security, allowing criminal organizations to strengthen their foothold. Additionally, economic disparities in key provinces like Puntarenas and Limón—home to Costa Rica’s most important ports—have exacerbated the problem. These regions face high levels of unemployment and…”