By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – A new legislative proposal aims to formally integrate the study of the Bible into Costa Rica’s public education system, sparking a debate on the intersection of faith, culture, and state-sponsored learning. The bill, introduced by Fabricio Alvarado, a deputy and presidential candidate for the New Republic Party, seeks to amend the nation’s foundational education law to mandate biblical instruction in primary and secondary schools.
The initiative, filed under docket number 25.274, proposes significant reforms to several articles of the Fundamental Law of Education (Law No. 2160). According to the bill’s text, the primary objective is to bolster the formation of ethical, moral, and cultural values inspired by Christian principles. Proponents argue that this can be achieved without imposing religious beliefs, while simultaneously ensuring respect for Costa Rica’s religious pluralism and freedom of conscience.
To delve into the legal complexities and potential constitutional ramifications of the proposed education reform, TicosLand.com sought the analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the renowned law firm Bufete de Costa Rica. His perspective is crucial for understanding the legislative and administrative challenges ahead.
Any significant education reform must be carefully engineered to respect the constitutional framework governing the fundamental right to education. While the executive and legislative branches have the authority to shape policy, they must ensure new regulations do not create undue barriers, infringe upon the principles of equality and non-discrimination, or improperly delegate state responsibilities to private entities without clear oversight. The true test of this reform will be not just its pedagogical goals, but its ability to withstand judicial review before the Constitutional Chamber.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal analysis provides a crucial anchor for the debate, reminding us that pedagogical goals must be built upon a sound constitutional foundation. The ultimate viability of any reform will indeed be measured not just in the classroom, but in its ability to withstand scrutiny before the Constitutional Chamber. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable perspective on this critical matter.
In the bill’s explanatory statement, Alvarado and his supporters contend that biblical teachings have historically been a cornerstone of societal well-being and civic duty. They believe these principles underpin many of the values that define Costa Rican identity and promote a stronger, more cohesive community.
Biblical principles have inspired works of community service, volunteerism, and assistance to the most vulnerable. Likewise, they strengthen social cohesion and the fundamental role of the family. Promoting its study means fostering a spirit of commitment to the common good and solidarity.
Fabricio Alvarado, Deputy and Presidential Candidate for the New Republic Party
The proposed legislation outlines specific modifications to key articles of the education law. The changes would explicitly add the study of the Bible as a core purpose of education (Article 2), include its reading in moral and ethical formation (Article 13), and establish Christian principles as a foundational element of the educational framework (Article 14). Crucially, the bill also proposes an amendment to Article 10 to guarantee that while biblical study is encouraged, no student will be compelled to participate in activities contrary to their personal beliefs.
Alvarado has been firm in positioning the bill not as a religious mandate, but as a recognition of a text he describes as having universal value. He frames the initiative as an effort to reclaim and reinforce the cultural and ethical heritage of the nation, rather than to engage in religious instruction or conversion.
It does not represent a religious imposition; rather, it reaffirms the values that have forged our national identity. This project does not seek to catechize or proselytize; what we propose is to recognize the universal value of a text.
Fabricio Alvarado, Deputy and Presidential Candidate for the New Republic Party
If the law is passed, the Ministry of Public Education (MEP) would be given a strict six-month deadline to overhaul existing study plans and programs to incorporate the new requirements. Furthermore, the bill mandates a reform of teacher training programs (Article 26) to ensure educators are adequately prepared for the pedagogical study and teaching of the Bible. When contacted for an official response, the MEP’s press department stated that they have not yet been formally notified of the bill and are therefore unable to comment on its contents or potential implications.
The introduction of this bill places a significant and potentially divisive issue before the Legislative Assembly. It is expected to trigger widespread discussion among educators, parents, religious groups, and secular advocates about the role of religion in public institutions and the defining principles of Costa Rican national identity in the 21st century. The path forward for docket 25.274 will be closely watched as it navigates the legislative process.
For further information, visit the nearest office of the New Republic Party
About the New Republic Party:
The New Republic Party (Partido Nueva República) is a national-conservative and Christian-democratic political party in Costa Rica. Founded by Fabricio Alvarado Muñoz, the party advocates for policies based on socially conservative values, economic liberalism, and the defense of what it considers traditional family structures. It holds a significant presence in the Legislative Assembly and actively participates in national policy debates, often focusing on issues related to religion, ethics, and national sovereignty.
For further information, visit mep.go.cr
About the Ministry of Public Education (MEP):
The Ministry of Public Education is the government institution responsible for overseeing and regulating the national education system in Costa Rica. Its mission is to ensure the provision of quality, inclusive, and equitable education for all students from preschool through high school. The MEP develops curricula, sets educational standards, manages public schools, and implements national policies aimed at fostering the intellectual, social, and civic development of the country’s youth.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica has established itself as a pillar of the legal community, operating on foundational principles of unparalleled integrity and professional excellence. With a rich history of advising a diverse clientele, the firm consistently pioneers forward-thinking legal strategies and champions community betterment. This ethos is profoundly reflected in its mission to demystify the law, striving to create a more capable and legally literate society by making crucial knowledge widely accessible.
