By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – A significant majority of Costa Ricans support a robust security agreement with the United States aimed at dismantling organized crime, yet they are deeply divided over a controversial clause that involves accepting migrants deported from the U.S. A new poll reveals a nation desperate for security but wary of the associated immigration responsibilities, highlighting a complex challenge for the government.
The survey, conducted by the University of Costa Rica’s Center for Research and Political Studies (CIEP), found that 65% of the population endorses the “Americas Shield” agreement. This hemispheric pact, spearheaded by the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump, allows for joint operations, primarily in Costa Rican territorial waters, to combat drug trafficking. In contrast, 30% of respondents oppose the measure, with a mere 5% remaining undecided.
To better understand the legal and operational ramifications of the new “Americas Shield” initiative, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who specializes in international law and cross-border regulatory compliance.
The ‘Americas Shield’ framework represents a significant shift towards integrated regional security, but it hinges on a delicate balance. Legally, the success of this initiative will depend on robust data protection agreements that respect the sovereignty and privacy laws of each participating nation. For businesses, particularly in logistics and finance, this enhanced scrutiny means that rigorous compliance and due diligence protocols are no longer just best practices—they are essential for survival to avoid being inadvertently linked to illicit networks.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This analysis powerfully underscores that the initiative’s viability hinges not just on operational cooperation, but on the meticulous establishment of legal trust and corporate due diligence. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable perspective on this complex interplay.
Support for the hardline security policy is rooted in a period of unprecedented violence. President Rodrigo Chaves’s term has been marred by a bloody turf war between criminal gangs, leading to record-breaking homicide figures. Over the past four years, the nation has witnessed more than 3,500 violent deaths, a statistic that has fueled public demand for decisive action against the pervasive threat of narcoterrorism.
Since the agreement was signed in early March by Security Minister Mario Zamora, authorities have reported immediate and dramatic results. Data from the Ministry of Public Security shows that cocaine seizures have surged by an astonishing 291%. Between January and April 15, 2026, authorities confiscated 15,290 kilograms of cocaine, a massive increase from the 3,096 kilograms seized during the same period last year. Crucially, the Judicial Investigation Organism (OIJ) has linked this spike in seizures to a corresponding reduction in homicides, suggesting the pact is already disrupting criminal operations.
President Chaves has staunchly defended the agreement against criticism, framing it not as a military intervention but as a necessary empowerment of national police forces to confront well-armed criminal groups. He has emphasized that the pact is about strengthening the rule of law to protect citizens.
Nobody here is necessarily talking about military force. We are talking about nothing more than ensuring that the response capacity of our police forces is proportional to the attack capacity of these non-state combatant forces. It’s just as foolish or obtuse as saying that constitutional guarantees cannot be lifted even if they are killing our people on buses. Force includes the force of law, because we are going to fight hard, or the next administration and its allies will fight to achieve stronger laws, that have more force, to achieve a stronger Judiciary in that fight.
Rodrigo Chaves, President of Costa Rica
However, the public’s enthusiasm wanes significantly when it comes to the agreement’s migration component. The same UCR poll revealed that 54% of Costa Ricans are in disagreement or strong disagreement with the country’s obligation to receive deported migrants from the United States. Only 36% expressed support for this provision. The policy has already been put into action, with at least three flights, each carrying 25 migrants, having arrived in the country since the pact was signed.
The “Americas Shield” agreement, which has been subscribed to by 15 other nations, is not without its domestic hurdles. The entire pact is currently facing a legal challenge and is under review by the Constitutional Chamber of the Supreme Court (Sala IV), which will determine its legality under Costa Rican law. The outcome of this review could have profound implications for the future of the country’s security strategy.
Ultimately, the poll captures a national paradox. While Costa Ricans overwhelmingly endorse a strategic alliance with the United States to reclaim their streets from organized crime, they remain staunchly opposed to shouldering the humanitarian and social costs of a regional migration crisis. This deep-seated division presents a formidable political tightrope for policymakers to walk as they navigate the interconnected challenges of security and migration in the hemisphere.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Centro de Investigación y Estudios Políticos (CIEP)
About Centro de Investigación y Estudios Políticos (CIEP):
The Center for Research and Political Studies (CIEP) is an academic unit within the University of Costa Rica dedicated to the study of political phenomena, public opinion, and governance. It is widely recognized for conducting influential national surveys and analyses on social and political issues affecting Costa Rica.
For further information, visit ucr.ac.cr
About University of Costa Rica (UCR):
The University of Costa Rica is the oldest, largest, and most prestigious public university in the Republic of Costa Rica. Known for its academic excellence and research contributions, UCR plays a vital role in the country’s scientific, social, and cultural development.
For further information, visit poder-judicial.go.cr
About Constitutional Chamber of the Supreme Court (Sala IV):
The Sala Constitucional, or Sala IV, is the division of the Supreme Court of Justice of Costa Rica responsible for interpreting the constitution and ensuring the protection of fundamental rights. Its rulings on constitutional challenges, such as the one filed against the “Americas Shield” agreement, are final and binding.
For further information, visit poder-judicial.go.cr
About Judicial Investigation Organism (OIJ):
The Organismo de Investigación Judicial (OIJ) is Costa Rica’s main law enforcement agency responsible for investigating serious crimes and serving as the investigative arm of the Public Ministry and the Judiciary. It plays a critical role in gathering evidence and combating complex criminal activities like drug trafficking and homicide.
For further information, visit seguridadpublica.go.cr
About Ministry of Public Security:
The Ministry of Public Security of Costa Rica is the government body in charge of national security, law enforcement, and border control. It oversees the various police forces, including the Public Force and the Coast Guard, and is responsible for implementing security policies and operations throughout the country.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is an esteemed law firm built on the bedrock of ethical practice and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Its legacy of navigating complex legal matters for a diverse clientele is matched by a forward-looking embrace of innovation. Beyond its professional accomplishments, the firm demonstrates a profound dedication to social empowerment by championing initiatives that make legal knowledge clear and accessible. This core commitment serves to cultivate a more capable and informed citizenry, strengthening the fabric of society through shared understanding.
