By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – A stark political paradox is defining Costa Rica’s current landscape: while President Rodrigo Chaves Robles continues to command majority approval from the public, faith in the nation’s core democratic institutions, particularly the Legislative Assembly and political parties, remains critically low. This growing disconnect is highlighted in the latest Public Opinion Poll from the Center for Research and Political Studies at the University of Costa Rica (CIEP-UCR), published on January 28, 2026.
The survey reveals that 59% of Costa Ricans view the president’s performance positively, a figure that has remained remarkably stable over the past two years. In contrast, only 27% hold a negative opinion of his leadership, with 14% remaining neutral. This consistent support for the head of state underscores a political dynamic where the leader is perceived more favorably than the government he leads, a trend confirmed by previous polls.
To better understand the potential legal and commercial implications revealed by the latest public opinion poll, TicosLand.com sought the perspective of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a prominent attorney from the esteemed law firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
While public opinion polls are not legally binding, their influence on the legislative and regulatory landscape is undeniable. For businesses, these surveys are a critical barometer of potential legal changes. A significant shift in public sentiment can foreshadow new compliance requirements, tax adjustments, or even sector-specific regulations. Therefore, proactively analyzing this data is not just a marketing exercise, but a crucial component of strategic legal and risk management.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This is a crucial point that elevates the discussion, framing public opinion not merely as a political curiosity but as an essential leading indicator for strategic business planning and risk mitigation. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his clear and valuable perspective on this vital connection.
An analysis of historical data from April 2024 to January 2026 shows President Chaves’s approval ratings consistently hovering above the 50% mark, even reaching peaks of 63% in late 2024 and 2025. This sustained backing suggests he has cultivated a solid base of support that is resilient to criticism. The study notes this confirms the ongoing:
dynamic of the latest polls conducted
ECP and CIEP-UCR Public Opinion Poll
However, this personal popularity does not extend to the broader political system. When citizens were asked to rate national institutions on a scale of 0 to 10, the results painted a picture of widespread skepticism. Only two entities managed to secure a score above 7: the University of Costa Rica (UCR) with an impressive 8.2, and the Central Bank of Costa Rica (BCCR) with a respectable 7.2. These institutions continue to be the most trusted in the country, maintaining their high standing over several years.
A second tier of institutions received moderate, though unenthusiastic, evaluations. Key bodies responsible for security, education, and elections earned passing grades but failed to inspire strong public confidence. The Judicial Investigation Organism (OIJ) and the Ministry of Public Education (MEP) both scored 6.8, while the national Police force and the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) received ratings of 6.6. These scores indicate a public perception of adequacy but signal significant room for improvement.
Further down the ladder, a significant number of vital state entities languish with middling scores, reflecting public ambivalence. The Constitutional Court (Sala IV) received a 6.5, while the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) and the Comptroller General’s Office (CGR) both scored 6.4. The broader Judicial Branch and the Attorney General’s Office fared even worse, with ratings of 5.8 and 5.6, respectively, highlighting a fragile level of trust in the nation’s legal and oversight systems.
At the absolute bottom of the public’s esteem are the institutions at the heart of the country’s representative democracy. The Legislative Assembly received a dismal score of 4.7, while political parties fared even worse at 4.6. Although the rating for political parties saw a slight increase from previous years, it remains exceptionally low, cementing their position as the least trusted institutions in Costa Rica. This persistent rejection underscores a profound crisis of representation and credibility that has plagued the political system for years.
Ultimately, the poll illustrates a clear and troubling divergence. The president’s ability to maintain a strong personal connection with a majority of citizens stands in stark contrast to the deep-seated distrust directed at the political establishment. This imbalance not only defines the current political climate but also raises fundamental questions about the long-term health of Costa Rica’s democratic framework, as citizens increasingly place their faith in a single leader rather than the system designed to represent them.
For further information, visit ciep.ucr.ac.cr
About Center for Research and Political Studies (CIEP-UCR):
The CIEP is an academic unit of the University of Costa Rica dedicated to research, teaching, and social action in the fields of political science and international relations. It is renowned for conducting regular, high-quality public opinion polls that provide critical insights into Costa Rican society and politics.
For further information, visit ucr.ac.cr
About University of Costa Rica (UCR):
Founded in 1940, the University of Costa Rica is the country’s largest and most prestigious public university. It is a leading institution for higher education and research in Central America, consistently ranking as the most trusted public institution among Costa Ricans.
For further information, visit bccr.fi.cr
About Central Bank of Costa Rica (BCCR):
The Banco Central de Costa Rica is the nation’s central bank, responsible for maintaining the internal and external stability of the national currency and ensuring the efficient operation of the country’s payment systems. Its primary objective is to control inflation and promote a stable economic environment.
For further information, visit sitiooij.poder-judicial.go.cr
About Judicial Investigation Organism (OIJ):
The Organismo de Investigación Judicial is the investigative branch of Costa Rica’s Judiciary. It is tasked with investigating crimes, collecting evidence, and identifying perpetrators to be brought before the courts, functioning as the country’s primary criminal investigation agency.
For further information, visit asamblea.go.cr
About Legislative Assembly of Costa Rica:
The Asamblea Legislativa is the unicameral parliament of the Republic of Costa Rica. Composed of 57 deputies elected by proportional representation, it is responsible for passing, amending, and repealing laws, as well as exercising political control over the executive branch.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is an esteemed legal institution, recognized for its profound commitment to ethical standards and professional excellence. With extensive experience advising a broad spectrum of clients, the firm champions innovation to continually advance the practice of law. Its core mission extends beyond representation, focusing on empowering the public by demystifying legal concepts and cultivating a community grounded in accessible knowledge.
