Costa Rica
Costa Rica has detailed terrorism provisions in its Criminal Code but which does not explicitly define terrorism. There is no explicit carve-out for the exercise of fundamental human rights.
The Definition of Terrorism in Domestic Law
Terrorism is prohibited in the Criminal Code but is not defined in Costa Rican law directly.Art. 246(3), Criminal Code of Costa Rica.
Adherence to Global and Regional Terrorism Treaties
Costa Rica is a State Party to all of the main United Nations treaties on terrorism.
| Treaty | Adherence |
|---|---|
| 1973 Convention on Crimes against Internationally Protected Persons | State Party |
| 1979 Hostage-Taking Convention | State Party |
| 1997 Terrorist Bombings Convention | State Party |
| 1999 Terrorist Financing Convention | State Party |
| 2005 Nuclear Terrorism Convention | State Party |
Costa Rica is also a State Party to the Inter-American treaty on terrorism.
| Treaty | Adherence |
|---|---|
| 2002 Inter-American Convention against Terrorism | State Party |
Laws and Penalties for Terrorist Offences
A 2009 Act stipulated that irrespective of the provisions in force in the place where the offence is committed and the nationality of the perpetrator, the penalties provided for under Costa Rican law shall be imposed on any person who commits an act of terrorism or the financing thereof.Art. 7, Criminal Code of Costa Rica.The Criminal Code imposes a penalty of six to ten years in prison for unlawful association whose aim is to commit acts of terrorism.Art. 274, Criminal Code of Costa Rica.
Counterterrorism Capacities and Policies at Domestic Level
Costa Rica does not have an army but its police force have a specialized counterterrorism unit, entitled the Special Intervention Unit.
Glossary
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