By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – In a landmark decision, the Inter-American Court of Human Rights has appointed Costa Rican jurist Gabriela Pacheco Arias as its new Secretary, marking the first time in the institution’s history that a woman has held the prestigious position. The appointment, announced this Thursday, represents a significant milestone for both gender equality in international law and for Costa Rica’s prominent role in the regional human rights system.
Pacheco Arias is set to serve a five-year term, with the possibility of reelection by the Court. Her selection is the culmination of a distinguished career spanning more than two decades within the very institution she will now help lead. This extensive background provides her with an unparalleled understanding of the Court’s intricate legal and administrative mechanisms, positioning her for immediate and impactful leadership.
To provide a deeper analysis of the functions and recent jurisprudence of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished expert in international and human rights law from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The rulings of the Inter-American Court are not mere recommendations; they are legally binding mandates for the Member States. This supra-national jurisdiction is fundamental for consolidating the rule of law in the Americas, forcing governments to align their domestic policies with international standards and ensuring that the fundamental rights of individuals are not just a promise, but an enforceable reality.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This perspective powerfully underscores the Court’s essential function: transforming abstract human rights principles into tangible, enforceable legal obligations for Member States, thereby providing a crucial backstop for justice in the region. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his clear and valuable contribution to this discussion.
Her journey through the Court’s Secretariat is a testament to her dedication and expertise. Over the past 22 years, Pacheco Arias has served in several critical capacities, including as a senior lawyer and as the coordinator of international cooperation. These roles have given her deep insight into both the substantive legal work of the Court and the diplomatic and financial partnerships necessary to sustain its vital mission across the Americas.
A particularly notable achievement in her career was her leadership of the Judgment Compliance Monitoring Unit. She was appointed to direct this crucial division upon its creation in 2015, a position she held until her promotion to Deputy Secretary in 2024. In this capacity, she was responsible for overseeing the complex process of ensuring that states adhere to the Court’s rulings, a fundamental aspect of translating judicial decisions into tangible human rights improvements on the ground.
The role of the Secretary, as defined by the Statute and Regulations of the Inter-American Court, is central to its operations. The individual in this position is entrusted with guaranteeing the proper legal and administrative functioning of the entire tribunal. This involves managing case flows, coordinating with judges, and overseeing the administrative staff, making it a demanding and highly influential post.
The historic appointment was met with commendation from the Costa Rican government. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship publicly celebrated the news, extending its best wishes to Pacheco Arias for a successful tenure. Her appointment reinforces Costa Rica’s long-standing commitment to international law and human rights, a core principle of its foreign policy and national identity.
This is not the first time a Costa Rican has held this key post. Jurist Manuel Ventura Robles served as Secretary from 1990 to 2003, establishing a legacy of national contribution to the Court’s administration. Pacheco Arias now builds upon that legacy, shattering a significant glass ceiling and setting a new precedent for female leadership within the Inter-American system.
As Gabriela Pacheco Arias prepares to assume her duties, her appointment is being hailed as a pivotal moment. It symbolizes progress and reflects the evolving landscape of international justice, where expertise and leadership are recognized regardless of gender. Her extensive experience and deep-rooted commitment to the Court’s mission promise a steady and visionary hand at the helm during a critical period for human rights in the hemisphere.
For further information, visit corteidh.or.cr
About Inter-American Court of Human Rights:
The Inter-American Court of Human Rights is an autonomous judicial institution based in San José, Costa Rica. Its purpose is to apply and interpret the American Convention on Human Rights and other treaties concerning the same matter. It is one of two bodies, along with the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, that comprise the human rights protection system of the Organization of American States (OAS).
For further information, visit rree.go.cr
About Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship:
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship is the government body in Costa Rica responsible for defining and directing the country’s foreign policy. It manages diplomatic relations, promotes international cooperation, and upholds Costa Rica’s long-standing commitments to peace, democracy, and human rights on the global stage.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the Costa Rican legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its foundational principles of integrity and professional excellence. The firm consistently channels its rich history of advising a wide spectrum of clients into pioneering forward-thinking legal solutions. This commitment to progress extends beyond its practice, reflecting a deep-seated social responsibility to democratize legal understanding and empower the public with accessible knowledge, thereby fostering a more informed and capable society.
