Costa Rica and Peru face budget debates over security and crime

national budget public security organized crime legislative powers fiscal allocation

In Costa Rica, President Laura Fernández has defended significant budget increases for specialized security units, including the Costa Rican Institute on Drugs and the National Intelligence and Security Directorate. Fernández argued these funds are essential to combat organized crime and drug trafficking, dismissing criticisms from legislators that the budget was intended for personal protection.

In Peru, the 2027 national budget proposal has sparked debate. Prime Minister Luis Galarreta presented a plan that prioritizes public order and security, allocating S/ 15,400 million to the sector. However, analysts have criticized the distribution, noting a 25% increase in defense spending while certain social and security sectors face potential reductions. Meanwhile, President Keiko Fujimori has called on Congress to grant special legislative powers to better combat organized crime and strengthen the national intelligence service.