Political Structure

Under the November 1949 constitution, government consists of three branches: legislative, executive and judicial. The Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) is considered a fourth power and its five members are appointed by the legislative assembly for six years.

Executive power is vested in the president who is assisted by two vice presidents and an appointed cabinet. The president is elected for a four-year term, and a successful candidate must receive at least 40 per cent of the votes. Voting is universal from the age of 18, compulsory and by secret ballot. The president is responsible for ensuring that the laws and the provisions of the constitution are carried out and for maintaining order. He also has the power to appoint and remove cabinet ministers and diplomatic representatives and to negotiate treaties with foreign nations, although these must subsequently be ratified by the legislative assembly.

The single chamber legislative assembly has 57 members who, like the president, are elected for four years. The assembly meets twice a year, from May 1 to July 31, and from September 1 to November 30. Special sessions may be called by the president. The assembly is empowered to enact laws, levy taxes, authorize declarations of war, suspend certain civil liberties guaranteed by the constitution in cases of civil disorder (by a minimum two-thirds majority) and approve constitutional amendments. Bills must have three readings in at least two legislative periods before they become law. The assembly may override the presidential veto by a two-thirds vote.

The legislative assembly elects 17 Supreme Court justices for eight year terms, who are automatically re-elected for a further eight years unless the assembly passes a two thirds vote against them. The Supreme Court, meeting in plenary session, has the power to declare laws and decrees unconstitutional and appoint judges of the lower courts. There are also four courts of appeal, criminal courts, civil courts and special courts.

The president of Costa Rica: Dr. Oscar Arias Sanchez. President and vice presidents elected on the same ticket by popular vote for four-year terms; election last held 5 February, 2006. Next to be held in February 2010.

Armed Forces

The Costa Rican constitution contains a clause outlawing the existence of a national army (the military was abolished in 1948). A military force may, however, be convened for the purpose of national defense. Costa Rica is a signatory of the Inter American Mutual Assistance Treaty (TIAR).