Costa Rican Judiciary faces significant budget cuts and freezes

The National Association of Public and Private Employees (ANEP) has filed a constitutional recourse before the Constitutional Chamber against budget cuts and freezes imposed on the Costa Rican Judiciary. The organization argues that these measures, driven by the Ministry of Finance, threaten judicial independence and the ability to investigate organized crime.

According to ANEP, a technical adjustment for 2026 involves a reduction of approximately ₡23,721 million, with the Judicial Investigation Organization (OIJ) expected to bear the largest impact, losing roughly ₡9,536 million. The association estimates total impacts could reach ₡35,330 million during 2026 due to blocked funds intended for the OIJ and the Public Ministry.

Furthermore, the 2027 national budget proposal seeks to reduce the Judiciary's budget from ₡541,000 million to approximately ₡530,000 million. The proposal includes execution rules that would block an additional ₡30,000 million unless certain conditions regarding audits and infrastructure are met. These cuts specifically target durable goods and remunerations, potentially forcing reductions in vehicle purchases and construction projects.