Costa Rican former presidents warn of declining press freedom

Eight former presidents of Costa Rica met with representatives from the Inter American Press Association (SIP) and the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) to discuss the country's current state of freedom of expression and press freedom.

In a joint statement, the former heads of state expressed concern regarding what they described as signs of deterioration in these areas. They highlighted several issues, including administrative measures intended to financially stifle media outlets, restrictions on accessing public information, and the unjustified use of ‘state secrets’.

The former leaders also pointed to the stigmatization of journalists and media organizations, as well as digital harassment directed at content creators and communicators who are critical of the government. They urged authorities and civil society to facilitate the mission of these international organizations and to ensure transparency and openness.