Costa Rica is a Central American nation that boasts of a noteworthy safety record on crime as compared to its neighbors in the region.[1] It is one of few nations that have abolished their nation's armed forces. Having had a stable past, this country has been successful in developing its economy. However, since 2000 there has been a significant rise in criminal activity. Increase in domestic illegal activity, such as theft, homicide, and organised crime, has overwhelmed the local population.[1] Sebastian Huhn reports that, "In a public opinion poll in 2011, 45 percent of Costa Rican respondents said that crime and insecurity were the country’s biggest social problems."[1] As a consequence of the overall societal changes, domestic-driven crime has been increasing in the environment that extends beyond traditional settings. Illegal activity, including distribution of weapons has been most commonly witnessed during the sporting events by 'barras' or fan clubs.[2] Crime in Costa Rica, thus, is not only due to domestic crime groups but also transnational criminal organisations.[3]
Map of Costa Rica
As Vice President Laura Chinchilla described in March 2008:[1]
"Costa Rica was known in the world as a nation of peace and tolerance. Over the course of our history, we (have) learned to solve our differences and conflicts through dialogue and with respect for others. These distinctive traits have been challenged in recent years by the increase of crime and violence."
^ abcdHuhn, Sebastian; Warnecke-Berger, Hannes (2016-12-24). Politics and History of Violence and Crime in Central America. Springer. ISBN 9781349950676.
^Rodriguez, George. "Costa Rica's Soccer Hooligans are Using Games for Crime Sprees". link.galegroup.com. NotiCen: Central American & Caribbean Affairs, 2 Nov. 2017, p. 2. Expanded Academic ASAP. Retrieved 2018-10-04.
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