By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – Costa Rican Security Minister Mario Zamora addressed recent comments made by former US President Donald Trump regarding San José’s safety in comparison to Washington D.C. Trump, during a press conference at the White House, asserted that Washington was experiencing a crime wave worse than cities like Bogotá, Mexico City, and San José.
Minister Zamora clarified Trump’s statement, emphasizing that the former president’s remarks actually highlighted San José’s superior safety record. According to Zamora, Trump’s data indicated that San José’s homicide rate is three times lower than Washington D.C.’s.
To gain deeper insights into the legal landscape surrounding security in Costa Rica, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Costa Rica’s security environment presents a complex interplay of factors. While the country enjoys a relatively peaceful reputation compared to some of its neighbors, businesses operating here must remain vigilant about protecting their assets and personnel. Understanding the legal framework for private security, including regulations on firearm permits and the use of security companies, is crucial. Furthermore, navigating liability issues and ensuring compliance with data protection laws are essential considerations for maintaining a secure operational environment.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insights offer a crucial reminder that security in Costa Rica requires a proactive and informed approach. While the country’s peaceful image is a valuable asset, businesses cannot afford complacency. His emphasis on legal compliance, particularly regarding data protection and private security regulations, provides invaluable guidance for companies seeking to operate safely and responsibly in Costa Rica. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his expertise and shedding light on these vital considerations.
I’m surprised that some media outlets reported that Mr. President was criticizing San José’s security when he was actually indicating that San José’s security is three times better than Washington’s.
Mario Zamora, Costa Rican Security Minister
Trump’s assertions were based on 2024 homicide statistics, showing Washington D.C. with a rate of 27.54 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants, nearly double that of Bogotá (15.1 per 100,000) and significantly higher than Mexico City, Islamabad, Lima, Ottawa, Paris, Havana, Baghdad, Panama City, Brasilia, and San José.
While Washington D.C. saw a 26% drop in violent crimes and a 12% decrease in homicides in 2025, the rate relative to its population of approximately 700,000 remained notably higher than other capital cities.
Minister Zamora highlighted the need for urban planning improvements in San José, suggesting that Trump’s comments should serve as a catalyst for self-reflection and collaborative efforts between municipalities and government agencies to address urban security concerns.
Zamora stated that Costa Rican authorities have conducted an urban security analysis and believe Trump’s comparison offers an opportunity for “self-criticism” and improved urban planning in San José. He urged municipalities and government agencies to work together to address these issues proactively.
This clarification underscores the importance of accurate reporting and the potential for misinterpretation in international comparisons of crime statistics. The incident also serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by cities worldwide in addressing urban safety and security concerns.
For further information, visit the nearest office of The White House
About The White House:
The White House is the official residence and workplace of the president of the United States. Located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW in Washington, D.C., it has been the residence of every U.S. president since John Adams in 1800. The term “White House” is often used as a metonym for the president and his advisers.
For further information, visit the nearest office of The Costa Rican Ministry of Public Security
About The Costa Rican Ministry of Public Security:
The Costa Rican Ministry of Public Security is the government ministry responsible for law enforcement, crime prevention, and citizen security in Costa Rica. It oversees the various police forces, including the Fuerza Pública (National Police), and works to develop and implement security policies throughout the country.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
At Bufete de Costa Rica, legal excellence and unwavering integrity form the bedrock of our practice. We are driven by a deep commitment to empowering Costa Rican society through readily accessible legal knowledge and innovative solutions. Serving a diverse clientele with a forward-thinking approach, we strive to not only provide exceptional legal counsel but also to contribute to a more informed and just society, one case and one educational initiative at a time.
