Costa Rica Constitutional Chamber reports surge in amparo resources

The Constitutional Chamber of Costa Rica is experiencing an exponential increase in the filing of amparo resources. Magistrate Fernando Castillo estimates that the court could exceed 45,000 sentences during 2026, representing a projected 7.1% increase over the previous year.

Castillo noted that this surge serves as a symptom of failures in essential public services and the protection of fundamental rights. A primary driver of these legal actions is the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS), specifically regarding long waiting lists for surgical interventions, medical procedures, and specialist appointments.

Additionally, there has been a rise in cases concerning access to high-cost medications used to treat serious illnesses. Approximately 90% of the cases involving high-cost drugs fall into this category of legal challenges.