Politics & Government Guide in Costa Rica

Political system, governance structure, stability indicators, and democratic institutions

Costa Rica remains a stable democratic republic under President Rodrigo Chaves Robles since 2022, marked by a fragmented multi-party legislature and executive-legislative tensions. Recent 2026 elections reflect ongoing political shifts from traditional two-party dominance. Challenges include crime, inequality, and governance complexities amid strong institutional checks.

Political Stability

Good

Corruption Index

Moderate

Democracy Index

Good

Government Type

Democratic Republic

Legal System

Civil law system

Head of State

President Rodrigo Chaves Robles(since 2022)

Head of Government

President Rodrigo Chaves Robles(Social Democratic Progress Party)since 2022

Political Indicators

Political Stability

0.85Rank #28

Scale: 0-1

Stable

Political Stability Index (2024)

Corruption Index

58Rank #36

Scale: 0-100

Transparency International (2024)

Press Freedom

72.5Rank #32

Scale: 0-100

Reporters Without Borders (2024)

Democracy Index

8.07Rank #22

Scale: 0-10

Full Democracy

Economist Intelligence Unit (2024)

Legislature

Type:unicameral

Upper House:Upper House

Lower House:Legislative Assembly (57 seats)

Major Political Parties

Social Democratic Progress Party(PPSD)

Right-wing

National Liberation Party(PLN)

Centrist

Citizen's Action Party(PAC)

Center-left

Voting Rights

Universal suffrage for citizens aged 18 and older; compulsory voting.

Recent Developments

General elections held on 2026-02-01 for presidency and Legislative Assembly
President Rodrigo Chaves confronted checks and balances, intensifying polarization
Initiatives to combat rising criminal gangs and record murders in 2023
Road to Education program launched to revitalize education system

Voting Age18

SuffrageUniversal and compulsory

Constitution1949

Provinces7