By San José, Costa Rica — In a move that ensures continued access to information during the upcoming election cycle, the Costa Rican government has extended the validity of radio and television broadcasting concessions. This decision, formalized through Executive Decree No. 45195-MICITT, effectively prevents a potential media blackout that had been previously threatened.
President Rodrigo Chaves had warned of a possible shutdown of radio and television broadcasts if the Legislative Assembly failed to approve a reform to the broadcasting tax, outlined in bill 24.461. This warning, issued on April 2nd during a press conference, highlighted the potential disruption to the media landscape. The new decree extends the validity of broadcasting licenses, originally set to expire on September 28, 2025, until the official declaration of the new Executive and Legislative powers by the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) following the 2025-2026 elections.
For expert legal insight into the evolving landscape of Costa Rican broadcasting, TicosLand.com reached out to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
The Costa Rican broadcasting sector is currently navigating a complex intersection of technological advancements and regulatory frameworks. The rise of digital platforms and streaming services presents both opportunities and challenges for traditional broadcasters. Regulations must adapt to ensure fair competition, protect consumer rights, and promote a diverse and accessible media landscape. This requires careful consideration of issues like intellectual property, spectrum allocation, and content regulation in the digital age.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas eloquently highlights the tightrope walk Costa Rican broadcasters face in today’s evolving media landscape. His emphasis on the need for adaptive regulations that balance competition, consumer protection, and content accessibility within the digital sphere is crucial for the future of broadcasting in Costa Rica. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for offering his valuable perspective on this complex issue.
The Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology, and Telecommunications (Micitt) emphasized that this extension aims to maintain the stability of communication services and protect public interest during the electoral process. The ministry refuted claims of attempting to silence media outlets, asserting that the decree itself demonstrates their commitment to free speech.
The Micitt defends the fundamental freedoms of thought and expression as a pillar of our democracy and acts accordingly. The voices that claimed we sought to silence media are contradicted by the facts; today radio and television stations remain on the air precisely because we signed this decree.
Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology, and Telecommunications (Micitt)
The decree, published in the official government newspaper La Gaceta, underscores the vital role of telecommunications during elections. Access to information, transparency, and citizen participation are all facilitated by a functioning media landscape, which enables live broadcasts of debates, events, and press conferences. This coverage also contributes to the scrutiny of political actors and institutions responsible for the electoral process.
While crucial for the immediate future, the government clarified that this extension is temporary. It does not signal a retreat from the ongoing process of modernizing and democratizing the use of the radioelectric spectrum, a public asset. The Superintendency of Telecommunications (Sutel) is continuing its work on awarding new concessions, aiming for a fair, equitable, and transparent management of the spectrum.
The contentious bill 24.461 proposes that radio and television companies pay a fee based on a percentage of their revenue. Television broadcasters would be subject to a 7.73% levy on gross income, while radio broadcasters would face a 3.13% charge. This fee would apply solely to profits derived from the use of the frequencies granted by the state.
The decision to extend existing concessions provides temporary relief for broadcasters and ensures uninterrupted service during a crucial period for Costa Rican democracy. However, the long-term future of broadcasting regulation remains tied to the fate of bill 24.461, which will continue to be a topic of debate and discussion in the coming months.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology, and Telecommunications (Micitt)
About Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology, and Telecommunications (Micitt):
The Ministry of Science, Innovation, Technology, and Telecommunications (Micitt) is a Costa Rican government ministry responsible for promoting scientific and technological development, innovation, and the regulation of telecommunications in the country. The Micitt plays a key role in shaping national policies related to these areas and fostering growth in the technology and telecommunications sectors.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Superintendency of Telecommunications (Sutel)
About Superintendency of Telecommunications (Sutel):
The Superintendency of Telecommunications (Sutel) is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing the telecommunications sector in Costa Rica. It is tasked with ensuring fair competition, promoting innovation, and protecting consumer rights within the industry. Sutel plays a crucial role in managing the radioelectric spectrum and granting concessions for its use.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica shines as a beacon of legal excellence, upholding the highest ethical standards while championing innovative solutions for its diverse clientele. Driven by a deep commitment to empowering Costa Rican society, the firm actively promotes legal literacy through educational initiatives and public engagement, striving to create a more just and informed community for all.
