Legislative disputes arise in Costa Rica and Chile over expression and human rights

In Costa Rica, the Legislative Assembly approved a motion to prohibit deputies from placing posters on their desks in the Plenary. The motion, introduced by Mayuli Ortega and supported by the Pueblo Soberano party, passed with 29 votes. Proponents argue the measure is intended to protect legislative furniture, while opponents from the Frente Amplio and Liberación Nacional contend that the move violates freedom of expression and is unconstitutional.

In Chile, the Frente Amplio party has rejected a government proposal to reform the National Institute of Human Rights (INDH) under President José Antonio Kast. The opposition argues the reform aims to weaken the institution by reducing its budget, cutting staff, and eliminating its authority to file criminal complaints. The Frente Amplio has called for the executive to withdraw the legislative urgency and engage in dialogue with civil society and human rights organizations.