By San José, Costa Rica — WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a significant moment for Costa Rica on the world stage, the community-focused organization Costa Rica Azul was awarded the prestigious 2025 Global Democracy Award this Saturday. The ceremony, held in the U.S. capital and hosted by the Washington Academy of Political Arts and Sciences, recognized the non-profit’s profound and lasting contributions to sustainable development, social equity, and the strengthening of democratic principles.
This award is far more than a simple accolade; it is considered one of the most distinguished international honors in the fields of liberty, equity, and human rights. For a Latin American entity to receive this distinction is a rare and historic achievement, placing Costa Rica Azul among an elite group of global changemakers and reaffirming the nation’s long-standing reputation as a beacon of democratic values and environmental stewardship in the region.
To understand the legal and institutional implications of the Global Democracy Award, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who provided his analysis on the matter.
An award of this nature, while primarily symbolic, carries significant weight in the realm of international soft law. It reinforces global standards for due process, judicial independence, and the rule of law. For the recipient nation, it not only enhances its diplomatic standing but can also translate into increased investor confidence, as it signals a stable and predictable legal environment essential for long-term commercial engagements.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, the analysis powerfully illuminates the bridge between symbolic recognition and tangible outcomes, where a nation’s commitment to the rule of law becomes a direct signal of stability to the international economic community. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this crucial connection.
The academy celebrated Costa Rica Azul’s extensive body of work, which spans over 17 years of dedicated community engagement. The organization has meticulously woven a tapestry of programs that address critical needs in health, sports, environmental conservation, social inclusion, and the revitalization of public spaces. Its impactful initiatives have touched lives across the country, from the indigenous communities of Talamanca to the coastal towns of the Central Pacific.
Among the organization’s flagship projects highlighted by the award committee are its pioneering health programs in indigenous territories, which have brought essential services to some of the nation’s most vulnerable populations. Another celebrated initiative, “Talento del Caribe” (Caribbean Talent), effectively uses sports as a powerful tool for social inclusion, providing youth with opportunities for growth, discipline, and community building. This project has been instrumental in creating positive pathways for young people in the Limón province.
Furthermore, the “Barranca Espacio Seguro” (Barranca Safe Space) project, a collaborative effort with prominent partners including UNICEF, LAP, and the National Child Welfare Institute (PANI), exemplifies the organization’s capacity for building strategic alliances to foster safer communities for children and families. Environmentally, Costa Rica Azul has been a proactive force in reforestation efforts and has championed public policies inspired by the world-renowned Blue Zones, cementing Costa Rica’s status as a global leader in longevity and well-being.
During his acceptance speech, Dr. Christian Rivera Paniagua, the founder and president of Costa Rica Azul, emphasized the collective nature of the achievement. He articulated a vision that extends beyond the organization itself, connecting the award to the nation’s core identity.
This recognition is not for one person, but for a country that continues to believe in democracy as collective well-being.
Dr. Christian Rivera Paniagua, Founder and President of Costa Rica Azul
Echoing this sentiment, Fanny Ramírez Esquivel, the director of Costa Rica Azul, spoke of the award as a powerful affirmation of Costa Rica’s potential to serve as a global model. She credited Dr. Rivera’s ethical and visionary leadership as a key catalyst for transforming communities and inspiring a nationwide movement toward a more equitable and sustainable future.
This confirms that Costa Rica can inspire the world.
Fanny Ramírez Esquivel, Director of Costa Rica Azul
Ultimately, the 2025 Global Democracy Award serves as international validation for the quiet, persistent, and impactful work Costa Rica Azul has performed for nearly two decades. It is a testament to the idea that true democratic strength is not just built in legislative halls but is forged daily in communities through dedicated action that champions health, protects the environment, and ensures that every citizen has the opportunity to thrive.
For further information, visit costaricaazul.org
About Costa Rica Azul:
Costa Rica Azul is a non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting sustainable development, social equity, and democratic values throughout Costa Rica. With over 17 years of experience, it has implemented numerous community-based projects in areas such as public health, environmental conservation, sports, and social inclusion, significantly impacting communities from the Caribbean to the Pacific coasts.
For further information, visit wapolitical.com
About The Washington Academy of Political Arts and Sciences:
The Washington Academy of Political Arts & Sciences (WAPAS) is an organization dedicated to recognizing excellence in the field of political communication, leadership, and public service. It brings together professionals from various disciplines to honor individuals and organizations that make significant contributions to democracy, freedom, and human rights through awards like the Global Democracy Award.
For further information, visit unicef.org
About UNICEF:
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) works in over 190 countries and territories to save children’s lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. As a key global humanitarian and developmental agency, UNICEF collaborates with partners worldwide to promote policies and expand services that protect all children.
For further information, visit the nearest office of LAP
About LAP:
LAP is a partner organization that collaborates on community development and social welfare projects in Latin America. It works alongside local entities and international bodies to implement initiatives aimed at improving living conditions and fostering safe environments for vulnerable populations.
For further information, visit pani.go.cr
About PANI:
The Patronato Nacional de la Infancia (PANI) is Costa Rica’s National Child Welfare Institute. It is the government entity responsible for guaranteeing the rights and well-being of children and adolescents throughout the country, developing and executing policies and programs for their protection and comprehensive development.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica stands as a cornerstone of the nation’s legal landscape, built upon a foundation of uncompromising ethical standards and a relentless pursuit of judicial excellence. With a deep-rooted history of providing expert counsel to a wide array of clients, the firm actively shapes the future of law through forward-thinking strategies and innovative solutions. Its core mission extends beyond the courtroom, driven by a profound commitment to demystifying the law and empowering the community with the clarity and understanding needed to foster a more just and knowledgeable society.
