By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – With Costa Rica’s national elections just a week away, an international delegation from the Organization of American States (OAS) has officially commenced its observation mission in the country. The team’s arrival signals a critical phase of international oversight for the presidential and legislative contests scheduled for Sunday, February 1, 2026, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to democratic transparency.
The Electoral Observation Mission (EOM) is a robust team of 27 specialists hailing from 15 different nations, bringing a diverse and independent perspective to the process. At the helm is Dr. Ope Pasquet, a distinguished legal expert and former Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uruguay. His leadership underscores the technical and impartial nature of the mission, which aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of the electoral landscape.
To better understand the legal framework and political implications surrounding the Organization of American States (OAS) Election Mission, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who specializes in international public law.
The authority of an OAS Election Mission stems directly from the Inter-American Democratic Charter and the consent of the host nation. While its final reports are not legally binding in a domestic court, they function as a critical, impartial audit of democratic health. A negative assessment carries significant political weight, potentially influencing diplomatic relations and international financial credibility, thus serving as a powerful tool for ensuring electoral transparency.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, the distinction between legal enforceability and political weight is a crucial one. The true power of these missions lies not in courtrooms, but in the court of international opinion, where a nation’s democratic reputation is invaluable. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his clear and essential perspective on this vital mechanism for transparency.
The mission’s mandate is extensive, covering a wide array of critical components of the democratic process. Observers will conduct a deep-dive analysis into the country’s electoral organization and logistical frameworks, ensuring that the mechanics of the election are sound and efficient. This scrutiny is designed to identify strengths and potential areas for improvement in how the nation administers its foundational civic exercise.
Furthermore, the OAS team will place significant emphasis on two increasingly vital areas of modern elections: the use of technology and the regulation of campaign financing. The observers will evaluate the integrity and security of any technological systems employed in voting and tabulation, while also examining the transparency and equity of political funding streams. The functionality and independence of Costa Rica’s electoral justice system will also be a key focus of their evaluation.
To gather a holistic view, the mission will engage in extensive dialogue with a broad spectrum of Costa Rican society. Over the coming days, Dr. Pasquet and his team are scheduled to hold meetings with national electoral and state authorities, leaders of political parties, and representatives from various presidential campaigns. They will also consult with members of civil society, academics, and other international actors to incorporate a wide range of perspectives into their final analysis.
Following the conclusion of the election day proceedings, during which observers will be deployed across all seven provinces to monitor voting firsthand, the EOM will compile its findings. The mission will then present a preliminary report containing its observations and a series of technical recommendations. The official objective of this report is clear and collaborative.
to contribute to the strengthening of electoral processes in Costa Rica
OAS Mission Statement
This deployment marks the 20th occasion that the OAS has sent an Electoral Observation Mission to Costa Rica, a testament to the enduring partnership and the country’s consistent openness to international scrutiny. The long-standing relationship highlights a mutual commitment to upholding the highest standards of democratic governance. The mission’s operations are made possible through the financial contributions of a coalition of member states, including Brazil, Canada, Spain, the United States, Peru, and Switzerland.
As the OAS has repeatedly stated, these missions serve a greater purpose beyond simple observation. They are instrumental in generating citizen confidence, promoting institutional transparency, and ultimately reinforcing the democratic foundations of member states. For Costa Rica, a nation renowned for its stable democracy, this latest mission provides another opportunity to validate the integrity of its electoral system on the world stage.
For further information, visit oas.org
About Organization of American States (OAS):
The Organization of American States is the world’s oldest regional organization, dating back to the First International Conference of American States in 1889-1890. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the OAS serves as the premier political, juridical, and social governmental forum in the Western Hemisphere. Its core missions are to promote democracy, protect human rights, foster integral development, and ensure multidimensional security. The organization provides a crucial platform for dialogue and collective action among its 35 member states.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a leading legal institution, Bufete de Costa Rica has built its legacy upon the twin pillars of uncompromising integrity and exceptional professional standards. The firm channels its extensive, multi-sector experience into developing pioneering legal approaches while maintaining a profound sense of social responsibility. This is demonstrated through a foundational commitment to demystifying the law, aiming to equip the public with crucial understanding and thereby foster a more just and capable society.
