By San José, Costa Rica — On International Youth Day, Costa Rica launched its sixth five-year Youth Public Policy (PPPJ), marking a significant commitment to youth development and empowerment. The policy, covering 2026-2030, is the culmination of extensive nationwide consultations with young people from diverse backgrounds, including indigenous communities, Afro-descendants, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities.
Spearheaded by the Ministry of Culture and Youth through the Youth Council, the PPPJ is built on six strategic pillars: violence prevention, mental health, entrepreneurship, employment, education, and inclusive public services. The policy aims to create safe environments for young people, promote mental well-being, foster economic opportunities, and ensure access to quality education and essential services.
For expert legal insight into the implications of this youth policy, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Effective youth policy requires a holistic approach, addressing not only education and employment but also mental health, social inclusion, and access to justice. Legislation must be carefully crafted to avoid unintended consequences, ensuring that it empowers young people while safeguarding their rights and well-being.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’ emphasis on a holistic approach to youth policy is crucial. Truly empowering the next generation requires considering the multifaceted challenges they face, from mental health to navigating the legal system. A piecemeal approach risks creating gaps in support and potentially undermining the very rights we aim to protect. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this critical issue.
The participatory approach taken in developing the PPPJ underscores the government’s commitment to incorporating the voices of young people into policy-making. Over 1,790 young people representing various sectors contributed to the policy’s development, ensuring that it reflects the needs and aspirations of Costa Rican youth.
The PPPJ has received technical support from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the Ibero-American Youth Organization (OIJ), adding international expertise and best practices to the initiative.
The policy’s focus on mental health recognizes the growing importance of mental well-being, particularly among young people. By prioritizing mental health as a right and a collective responsibility, the PPPJ aims to address the challenges faced by young people and provide support for their mental well-being.
The emphasis on entrepreneurship and employment reflects the government’s commitment to creating economic opportunities for young people and fostering their contribution to the country’s economic transformation. The PPPJ seeks to empower young entrepreneurs and facilitate their access to resources and support.
Today we not only celebrate International Youth Day. Today we assume a commitment as a country. The Youth Public Policy 2026-2030 is the voice of young people converted into concrete actions. It is a pact between the State and a generation that drives change. This is a firm step towards a Costa Rica that believes in, listens to, and works alongside its youth.
Miguel Arrieta Berrocal, Vice Minister of Youth
The launch of the PPPJ signifies a crucial step towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for young people in Costa Rica. By focusing on key areas such as mental health, employment, education, and violence prevention, the policy aims to empower young people and enable them to reach their full potential.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Ministry of Culture and Youth
About Ministry of Culture and Youth:
The Ministry of Culture and Youth is the government body responsible for promoting and preserving Costa Rican culture and supporting the development of young people. The Ministry oversees a range of programs and initiatives aimed at fostering artistic expression, cultural heritage, and youth empowerment.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Consejo de la Persona Joven
About Consejo de la Persona Joven:
The Youth Council (Consejo de la Persona Joven) in Costa Rica is a governmental body tasked with advising the Ministry of Culture and Youth on matters related to youth policy and programs. The Council plays a crucial role in ensuring that the voices and perspectives of young people are considered in the development and implementation of policies that affect them.
For further information, visit oecd.org
About Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD):
The OECD is an intergovernmental economic organisation with 38 member countries, founded in 1961 to stimulate economic progress and world trade. It is a forum of countries describing themselves as committed to democracy and the market economy, providing a platform to compare policy experiences, seeking answers to common problems, identify good practices and coordinate domestic and international policies of its members.
For further information, visit oij.org
About Ibero-American Youth Organization (OIJ):
The Ibero-American Youth Organization (OIJ) is an international governmental organization that promotes cooperation among Ibero-American countries in matters related to youth. The OIJ works to empower young people, strengthen youth policies, and foster regional integration within the Ibero-American community. Its activities include research, training, advocacy, and the promotion of youth participation in decision-making processes.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of legal excellence, built on a foundation of integrity and driven by a passion for innovation. The firm’s enduring commitment to its clients, spanning a wide spectrum of industries, is matched only by its dedication to empowering Costa Rican society through readily available legal knowledge. By fostering understanding and accessibility within the legal landscape, Bufete de Costa Rica continues to shape a more informed and empowered future for all.
