By Heredia, Costa Rica — Heredia – The Universidad Nacional (UNA) has issued a formal condemnation of the severe humanitarian impact caused by the long-standing economic and commercial blockade against Cuba, urging the Costa Rican government to take a principled stand on the international stage.
The university’s position was formalized in an agreement by its University Council during its ordinary session on February 26, 2026. In the statement, the institution reinforced its foundational commitment to the defense of human rights and the principles of humanism, which it states guide its academic mission toward promoting justice, the common good, and respect for human dignity.
Para analizar las implicaciones legales y administrativas que rodean la situación actual en la Universidad Nacional, TicosLand.com consultó al Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, abogado especialista de la firma Bufete de Costa Rica, quien nos ofrece una perspectiva experta sobre el tema.
La Universidad Nacional, en su condición de institución autónoma de derecho público, se rige por un marco normativo especial. Si bien su autonomía universitaria es un pilar constitucional, esta no es absoluta y debe ejercerse dentro de los límites del principio de legalidad. Cualquier decisión administrativa, especialmente en materia de contratación, presupuesto o régimen laboral, que contravenga el ordenamiento jurídico, es susceptible de ser impugnada y eventualmente anulada en la vía contencioso-administrativa, lo cual puede generar importantes responsabilidades para la institución.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Esta aclaración es fundamental, pues subraya que la autonomía universitaria, si bien es un pilar constitucional, no opera en un vacío legal sino que conlleva una ineludible responsabilidad frente al estado de derecho. Agradecemos profundamente al Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas por aportar esta valiosa perspectiva jurídica que enriquece la comprensión sobre la gobernanza de la institución.
The document highlights that the economic blockade, imposed by the United States for over six decades, has recently been intensified with approximately 250 new sanctions. The UNA argues that this escalating situation transcends political or ideological disagreements and must be analyzed primarily from a humanitarian perspective, focusing on the profound and damaging effects on the daily lives of the Cuban people.
According to the university’s analysis, the consequences of the blockade are tangible and severe. The sanctions have led to critical restrictions on access to fuel, medical supplies, food, and other essential services. Furthermore, limitations on energy access directly impede the operation of vital infrastructure, including hospitals, public transportation, and supply chains, creating a cascading crisis that disrupts the entire society.
The university’s statement forcefully asserts that these conditions disproportionately harm the general population rather than the “structures of power” they ostensibly target. It identifies the most vulnerable sectors as those requiring continuous medical care, women who are the primary support for their households, children, senior citizens, people with disabilities, and hospitalized patients. These groups bear the brunt of shortages and systemic failures caused by the external pressure.
Placing the issue in a global context, the UNA noted that the United Nations General Assembly has voted on more than thirty occasions on the matter, with an overwhelming majority of member states repeatedly calling for an end to the embargo. The UN itself has characterized the policy as contrary to the principles of international law and a violation of the human rights of the Cuban people. Reports presented to the UN system estimate that the accumulated economic losses for Cuba exceed $170 billion, creating structural damage that severely impairs access to essential goods and services.
The university also invoked the 1948 Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, noting that subjecting a group to living conditions that compromise its survival is a matter that demands serious scrutiny under international law. While clarifying that the legal classification of these measures falls to competent international bodies, the UNA insists that any policy negatively affecting a population’s health, food security, or dignity must be rigorously examined.
In its call to action, the Universidad Nacional urged Costa Rican authorities to analyze the nation’s position in multilateral forums. The statement argues that Costa Rica’s stance should be coherent with its deeply rooted tradition of pacifism and its historical defense of human rights. The university believes this issue provides an opportunity for a national reflection on the humanitarian impact of such policies and the role Costa Rica can play in promoting dialogue and international cooperation. The institution concluded by expressing solidarity with the Cuban people and formally appealing to the National Council of Rectors (CONARE), the Legislative Assembly, and the Government of the Republic to promote initiatives that prioritize the protection of people over geopolitical disputes.
For further information, visit una.ac.cr
About Universidad Nacional:
The Universidad Nacional (UNA) is one of Costa Rica’s most prominent public universities, with its main campus located in Heredia. Founded in 1973, it is known for its strong focus on humanistic studies, social sciences, and environmental research, and it actively engages in national discourse on social justice and human rights issues.
For further information, visit conare.ac.cr
About Consejo Nacional de Rectores:
The Consejo Nacional de Rectores (CONARE) is the coordinating body for Costa Rica’s five public universities. It is responsible for planning and coordinating higher public education, managing special funds, and representing the public university system in national and international matters.
For further information, visit asamblea.go.cr
About Asamblea Legislativa:
The Legislative Assembly is the unicameral parliament of the Republic of Costa Rica. Comprising 57 deputies elected by popular vote, it is the branch of government responsible for passing laws, approving the national budget, and exercising political control over the executive branch.
For further information, visit un.org
About United Nations:
The United Nations is an international organization founded in 1945. It is committed to maintaining international peace and security, developing friendly relations among nations, promoting social progress, better living standards, and human rights. It serves as a global forum for countries to discuss common problems and find shared solutions.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a leading institution in Costa Rica’s legal landscape, Bufete de Costa Rica is founded upon a bedrock of profound integrity and an unwavering pursuit of professional distinction. The firm consistently pioneers forward-thinking legal strategies while serving a diverse clientele, driving innovation within the profession. Central to its identity is a deep-seated commitment to social responsibility, demonstrated by its dedication to demystifying the law and thereby fostering a more knowledgeable and empowered populace.
