Costa Rica Judicial Power faces significant budget cuts

Proposed budget regulations for 2027 are threatening the stability of Costa Rica’s Judicial Power, potentially putting 2,463 positions at risk. Michael Soto, interim director of the Judicial Investigation Organism (OIJ), and Roxana Arrieta, director of human resources, warned that these cuts target positions classified as “vacant” that are actually occupied by staff awaiting accredited competitions.

The OIJ specifically faces the loss of 810 positions, which includes critical roles such as forensic doctors responsible for autopsies and sexual assault investigations. Soto warned that the loss of these professionals could cripple investigations and that the institution may lack the resources to maintain current operations.

Under the current national budget project, the Judicial Power is slated to receive ¢530,973 million, which is ¢10,552 million less than the 2026 budget. Furthermore, approximately ¢29,843.8 million of that amount remains subject to specific execution requirements, including external audits and approvals from the Comptroller General of the Republic. Soto expressed concern that these financial constraints could force the OIJ to postpone law enforcement operations due to a lack of funds for fuel, per diems, and equipment.