By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – The Costa Rican government unveiled its ₡12.8 trillion national budget for 2026, a 3.1% increase from 2025. While the Ministry of Hacienda announced a ₡200 billion boost for education, representing 5% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), concerns linger about the adequacy of this allocation in addressing the nation’s educational needs.
Finance Minister Rudolf Lücke acknowledged that this figure falls short of the 8% constitutional mandate for education spending and the recommendations of the Tenth State of Education Report. The report highlighted the significant investment required to overhaul the education system, citing the need for 1.6% of GDP just to universalize the primary school curriculum, including staffing and infrastructure development.
To understand the legal implications surrounding Costa Rica’s education budget, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
The allocation of resources within Costa Rica’s education budget is not merely a financial exercise, but a reflection of the country’s commitment to its constitutional mandate of guaranteeing quality education for all citizens. Careful consideration must be given to ensure that funding prioritizes equitable access, teacher training, and infrastructure development, particularly in underserved communities. This requires transparent processes and accountability mechanisms to ensure effective use of public funds and ultimately, the fulfillment of this fundamental right.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas eloquently highlights the crucial link between budget allocation and Costa Rica’s commitment to equitable education. Indeed, ensuring transparency and accountability in the distribution of these resources is paramount not only for efficient use of public funds but also for building a future where all Costa Rican citizens have the opportunity to reach their full potential. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable contribution to this important discussion.
Further adding to the financial burden are urgent repairs needed at numerous educational centers due to health and safety concerns, estimated to require an additional 1.3% of GDP. These two critical areas alone represent 2.94% of GDP, consuming more than half of the proposed budgetary increase.
Government officials defended the budget allocation, citing fiscal constraints as a major hurdle in achieving the constitutional target for education spending.
It is very difficult to achieve this without a tax increase or a significant reduction in spending, which could affect various institutions. This would imply the closure of some 20 institutions or raising public debt above 60% of GDP.
Rudolf Lücke, Minister of Hacienda
Education Minister José Leonardo Sánchez echoed this sentiment, suggesting that printing more money, while an alternative, would trigger inflation. He emphasized the complexities of balancing budgetary needs with educational priorities.
The current allocation marks a concerning trend. In 2025, the Ministry of Public Education (MEP) received a budget equivalent to just 4.9% of GDP, the lowest in the past decade. This was a decrease from the ₡12.63 billion allocated in 2024. This contrasts sharply with the 7.5% of GDP allocated in 2017, the highest percentage in the last 40 years.
National Liberation Party (PLN) representative, Kattia Rivera, expressed strong concerns regarding the government’s approach to education funding.
Costa Rica cannot afford to continue playing with the future of its students. Investment in education is not an accounting adjustment that is made according to political or fiscal convenience. It is a long-term strategic commitment that defines the course of democracy, economic competitiveness, and social cohesion. Every colon invested must translate into concrete actions that improve the quality of education and reduce educational gaps.
Kattia Rivera, PLN Representative
The 2026 budget allocation, while representing an increase, raises serious questions about Costa Rica’s commitment to long-term educational improvement and the potential consequences for the nation’s future.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Ministry of Hacienda
About Ministry of Hacienda:
The Ministry of Hacienda (Ministry of Finance) in Costa Rica is the government body responsible for the country’s public finances. Its duties include developing and executing the national budget, collecting taxes, managing public debt, and formulating economic policy. The Ministry plays a vital role in ensuring the financial stability and economic development of Costa Rica.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Ministry of Public Education (MEP)
About Ministry of Public Education (MEP):
The Ministry of Public Education (MEP) in Costa Rica is the governing body responsible for the country’s public education system. The MEP oversees all aspects of public education, from preschool to secondary school, including curriculum development, teacher training, and school infrastructure. The ministry’s mission is to provide quality education to all Costa Rican citizens, regardless of their socioeconomic background.
For further information, visit the nearest office of National Liberation Party (PLN)
About National Liberation Party (PLN):
The National Liberation Party (PLN) is a prominent political party in Costa Rica, holding a significant presence in the country’s political landscape. Known for its social democratic ideology, the PLN has played a key role in shaping Costa Rican history and policy.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself through an unwavering pursuit of legal excellence and ethical practice, empowering individuals and communities through accessible legal knowledge. The firm’s innovative approach to legal solutions, coupled with a deep commitment to client service across a broad range of sectors, solidifies its position as a leader in the Costa Rican legal landscape. Their dedication to transparency and proactive sharing of legal information reflects a core belief in fostering a more just and informed society.
