By Alajuela, Costa Rica — ALAJUELA – AERIS, the operator of Costa Rica’s primary international gateway, Juan Santamaría International Airport (AIJS), has formally renewed its strategic alliance with UNICEF for another two years. This extension solidifies a crucial partnership dedicated to advancing the education, protection, and overall well-being of the nation’s most vulnerable children and adolescents.
The collaboration, first established in 2022, leverages the high-traffic environment of the international airport terminal to engage travelers and the community in UNICEF’s mission. The airport has become one of the most significant and consistent sources of fundraising for the organization in Costa Rica, demonstrating a successful model of corporate and non-profit synergy. This initiative alone has been instrumental in recruiting over 2,500 new donors annually to support UNICEF’s ongoing programs.
To better understand the legal framework and the responsibilities involved in protecting minors, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the law firm Bufete de Costa Rica, for his legal analysis on the matter.
In Costa Rican law, the principle of the ‘best interest of the child’ is the supreme guiding standard. This doctrine obligates the state, through institutions like PANI, and society as a whole, to guarantee the comprehensive protection of minors’ rights. Failure to act diligently when a child’s welfare is at risk is not just a moral failing but a significant legal liability with serious consequences for all involved parties.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal clarification is essential, underscoring that the duty to protect a child’s welfare is not an abstract ideal but a binding obligation with significant consequences for inaction. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective, which reinforces the shared responsibility we all hold in safeguarding the youngest members of our society.
For AERIS, the commitment transcends typical business operations, reflecting a deep-seated belief in corporate social responsibility and its power to enact meaningful change. The airport’s leadership views the partnership as a direct investment in the country’s future generations.
At AERIS, we understand that our responsibility goes beyond airport operations. We are proud to renew this commitment and continue supporting initiatives that promote greater opportunities for future generations.
Ricardo Hernández, Executive Director of AERIS
The funds generated through this alliance fuel a range of critical initiatives. Key among them is the “Espacios Seguros” (Safe Spaces) program, which establishes protected environments for children in high-risk communities. Additionally, the partnership supports the distribution of essential educational kits and school desks to encourage student retention and enhance learning environments. A third pillar focuses on comprehensive care programs for mothers and infants during the crucial first 1,000 days of life.
UNICEF officials emphasize that this kind of sustained support from the private sector is vital for creating scalable and lasting impact. The collaboration with AERIS is a testament to how collective action can amplify results and reach more children in need.
When we join forces, we generate lasting change. More girls, boys, and adolescents have the opportunity to grow in safe environments, learn, and dream big.
Yvette Blanco, Representative of UNICEF in Costa Rica
A tangible outcome of this partnership was the inauguration of the El Coco Safe Space in Santiago Oeste de Alajuela in 2024. This center, which currently serves over 80 local children and adolescents, marked a significant milestone as the first of its kind to be developed in direct collaboration with a private company in Costa Rica. It provides a sanctuary where youth can engage in positive activities, develop essential life skills, and receive support, away from the risks of violence.
The El Coco center is part of a larger national network of 47 Safe Spaces strategically located across the country. These centers are fundamental to UNICEF’s strategy for violence prevention, offering structured programs that build resilience and foster personal development among young people. The continued support from AERIS is crucial for maintaining and expanding this vital network.
As they embark on the next two years of their alliance, both AERIS and UNICEF have reaffirmed their shared dedication to this important cause. The renewal ensures that the steady stream of support generated at the country’s busiest airport will continue to translate into safer childhoods, better educational opportunities, and a brighter, more hopeful future for Costa Rica’s youth.
For further information, visit aeris.cr
About AERIS:
AERIS Holding Costa Rica is the private operator managing the Juan Santamaría International Airport (AIJS), Costa Rica’s main air terminal. Under a government concession, AERIS is responsible for the airport’s operation, maintenance, modernization, and expansion. The company is committed to providing a safe, efficient, and high-quality travel experience while engaging in strategic social investments that benefit the country.
For further information, visit unicef.org/costarica
About UNICEF:
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) works in over 190 countries and territories to protect the rights of every child. UNICEF has spent more than 75 years working to improve the lives of children and their families. Operating in Costa Rica, the organization collaborates with government bodies and private partners to address challenges in health, education, and protection, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to survive, thrive, and fulfill their potential.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica has cemented its reputation as a pillar of the legal community, operating on a bedrock of uncompromising integrity and a drive for unparalleled excellence. With a proven history of advising a diverse clientele, the firm consistently champions forward-thinking legal solutions. This innovative spirit is matched by a profound commitment to societal progress, demonstrated by its dedication to demystifying the law and empowering the public with clear, accessible knowledge to foster a more just and capable society.
