About Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a traveler's paradise, offering a diverse range of natural beauty and adventure.
From lush rainforests to stunning beaches, this Central American gem has something for every type of traveler.
Nature enthusiasts will be in awe of the country's rich biodiversity, with opportunities to spot exotic wildlife and explore pristine national parks.
For those seeking adventure, Costa Rica offers thrilling activities such as zip-lining through the treetops, surfing on world-class waves, and hiking up active volcanoes.
The country's commitment to sustainability and eco-tourism makes it a perfect destination for those who want to explore while minimizing their impact on the environment.
With its warm and welcoming locals, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine, Costa Rica is sure to leave a lasting impression on any traveler.

LGBTQ+ Overview

Legal Protections and Rights

Anti-Discrimination Laws

Costa Rica has made significant strides in protecting the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. Anti-discrimination laws in place prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in areas such as employment, education, and health services.

Marriage Equality

In May 2020, Costa Rica became the first Central American country to legalize same-sex marriage. This landmark decision was a result of a ruling by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights, which mandated that countries under its jurisdiction must recognize same-sex marriages.

Adoption Rights

Following the legalization of same-sex marriage, same-sex couples in Costa Rica also gained the right to adopt children. This ensures that LGBTQ+ individuals and couples have equal rights in forming families.

Social Acceptance and Attitudes

While legal protections have improved, social acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals in Costa Rica varies. Urban areas, particularly San José, tend to be more accepting and inclusive. However, in rural areas, traditional values and conservative attitudes may still prevail, leading to varying levels of acceptance.

Safety Concerns and Risks

Hate Crimes

Although there have been improvements in legal protections, hate crimes and acts of violence against LGBTQ+ individuals can still occur. The government and law enforcement agencies have been making efforts to address and reduce such incidents, but challenges remain.

Police Protection

Police protection for LGBTQ+ individuals has seen improvements, but there are still reports of inadequate responses to complaints of discrimination and violence. Efforts are being made to train law enforcement personnel to better handle LGBTQ+ related issues.

Resources and Support Organizations

Several organizations in Costa Rica provide support and resources for LGBTQ+ individuals. These include:

• Movimiento Diversidad: An organization that advocates for the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals and provides various forms of support.
• Centro de Investigación y Promoción para América Central de Derechos Humanos (CIPAC): Focuses on promoting human rights, including LGBTQ+ rights, through research and advocacy.
• Casa Rara: A community center that offers a safe space and resources for LGBTQ+ individuals.

Notable Events and Incidents

In recent years, Costa Rica has seen several noteworthy events related to LGBTQ+ rights and safety:

• Legalization of Same-Sex Marriage (2020): A historic milestone that positioned Costa Rica as a leader in LGBTQ+ rights in Central America.
• Anti-Discrimination Campaigns: Various campaigns have been launched to promote equality and reduce discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals.
• Pride Celebrations: Annual Pride events in San José and other cities have grown in size and visibility, celebrating LGBTQ+ culture and advocating for rights.

Overall, Costa Rica has made significant progress in terms of legal protections and rights for LGBTQ+ individuals. While social acceptance and safety concerns remain areas for improvement, ongoing efforts by the government and civil society organizations continue to foster a more inclusive environment.