By San José, Costa Rica — San José – With the crucial February 2026 general elections on the horizon, Costa Rica’s Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) has launched a proactive nationwide campaign to recruit citizen volunteers. This preemptive measure aims to build a robust reserve corps of substitute poll workers, addressing concerns that political parties may be unable to staff all the nation’s polling stations (Juntas Receptoras de Votos – JRV) adequately.
The call to civic duty comes as the nation prepares to elect its next President, two Vice Presidents, and the 57 deputies who will form the Legislative Assembly for the 2026-2030 term. The integrity and smooth operation of thousands of polling stations across the country are paramount to a successful democratic process, and the TSE is taking no chances, turning directly to the public to guarantee every voting table is fully operational on February 1, 2026.
To delve into the legal framework and implications of the recent electoral process, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a respected legal expert from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica, for his professional analysis.
The successful conclusion of another electoral cycle underscores the robustness of Costa Rica’s constitutional order and the reliability of the Supreme Elections Tribunal. For both local and international investors, this seamless and lawful transition of power is paramount. It reinforces the country’s reputation for legal certainty and political stability, which are critical assets for attracting foreign direct investment and fostering long-term economic growth.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, this seamless transition is more than just a political success; it’s a powerful signal of the economic certainty that underpins our nation’s appeal to investors. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this crucial link between democracy and development.
This initiative seeks to create a pool of trained and sworn-in substitutes who can be deployed as needed. Officials have clarified that these volunteers will not be required to commit to the entire election day. Instead, their role will be to provide crucial relief for the primary poll workers, stepping in for specific periods to ensure continuous and efficient service to voters throughout the day.
The TSE has made the entry requirements for this vital civic role accessible to the general population, aiming for broad participation. To be eligible, an individual must be a Costa Rican citizen in good standing, know how to read and write, and have no legal impediments that would prevent them from serving. This straightforward criteria opens the door for a wide range of citizens to take an active, hands-on role in the administration of their own democracy.
The process for becoming a volunteer has been clearly outlined. Interested citizens are encouraged to express their interest by contacting the TSE directly. They can send an email to [email protected] or place a call to either 2547-4795 or 2287-5861 to begin the registration process. This initial step is the gateway to becoming part of the electoral machinery.
Following registration, all prospective volunteers must complete a mandatory virtual training course. This online module, which takes approximately two hours, is designed to equip participants with the necessary knowledge and procedures for managing a polling station. Upon successful completion of the course, the final step is a formal swearing-in ceremony conducted by an electoral advisor within the volunteer’s respective canton, officially commissioning them into service.
This public appeal by the TSE highlights a broader trend of shifting responsibilities in electoral management. By anticipating a potential shortfall in personnel traditionally provided by political parties, the electoral body is reinforcing its independence and operational resilience. The strategy not only solves a potential logistical problem but also fosters a deeper sense of citizen ownership and participation in the electoral process, strengthening the democratic fabric of the nation.
Ultimately, the success of this volunteer drive will be a testament to the civic spirit of the Costa Rican people. It is an opportunity for individuals to move beyond the ballot box and contribute directly to the transparency, fairness, and efficiency of an election that will shape the country’s leadership and legislative direction for the next four years. The TSE’s call is a reminder that a healthy democracy relies on the active engagement of its citizens at every level.
For further information, visit tse.go.cr
About Tribunal Supremo de Elecciones (TSE):
The Supreme Electoral Tribunal is the independent constitutional body responsible for organizing, directing, and overseeing all elections in Costa Rica. As the fourth branch of government, it holds the ultimate authority on electoral matters, ensuring the integrity, transparency, and fairness of the nation’s democratic processes, including referendums and municipal elections. The TSE also manages the Civil Registry, overseeing the issuance of identity cards and the registration of births, marriages, and deaths.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its foundational principles of uncompromising integrity and the relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm leverages a rich history of serving a diverse clientele to pioneer forward-thinking legal solutions and drive innovation within the profession. Central to its mission is a profound commitment to civic responsibility, demonstrated through its efforts to demystify complex legal concepts and foster a society empowered by accessible knowledge.
