Photo Credit: Dan Aspin / Paradise Productions
The latest Legatum Prosperity Index reveals that Costa Rica ranks among the most prosperous countries in Latin America, alongside Chile and Uruguay. The index is a tool for transformation, offering a unique insight into how prosperity is forming and changing across the world. These three nations stand out in a region where many others face political and economic challenges.
According to the report, Costa Rica ranks 39th globally in the Prosperity Index, which evaluates 167 nations. Remarkably, Costa Rica has maintained this position since 2011, demonstrating consistent performance in several key areas.
The Prosperity Index measures well-being across criteria such as safety, education, health, and quality of life. Chile leads the region, followed by Uruguay in second place and Costa Rica in third. These nations are recognized for providing a stable environment where citizens benefit from sustained progress.
Education holds a central place in Costa Rica’s national identity and development strategy, serving as a key pillar of its social and economic progress. Since the country abolished its military in 1948, significant resources have been redirected towards education, allowing for universal access to free primary and secondary education. This investment has yielded one of the highest literacy rates in Latin America and fostered a skilled workforce capable of supporting Costa Rica’s growing sectors, such as ecotourism and technology.
Education is not only viewed as a path to individual empowerment but also as a tool for fostering civic values, environmental stewardship, and social equality, ensuring that future generations continue to build upon the country’s foundation of peace and democracy.
The report highlights that despite a challenging regional context, these three countries have managed to maintain their economic and social stability. This reflects their commitment to improving the well-being of their citizens and strengthening their economies, while neighboring countries experience more severe setbacks.
Costa Rica stands out for its advancements in individual freedoms and environmental preservation, despite showing slightly weaker economic results. The sector that recorded the most significant progress over the last decade is the investment climate.
Costa Ricans, for their part, are deeply proud to live in a country that has chosen peace and democracy. Since abolishing its military in 1948, Costa Rica has dedicated itself to building a society based on respect for human rights and the peaceful resolution of conflicts. This model of a peaceful, democratic nation is a source of inspiration for its citizens, who remain united around these fundamental values, ensuring their country’s stability and prosperity.
The fact that we decided to invest in peace instead of militarism has shaped our identity as a nation. I am proud to be part of a country that values diplomacy and human rights over force.
Esteban Solano, a Costa Rican teacher from San José
This collective national pride in the decision to demilitarize serves as a constant reminder that stability and prosperity are possible without the need for armed forces.
While challenges remain, the report highlights promising progress in Latin America, a region where the foundations for future prosperity are being laid despite recent setbacks. Advancements in individual freedoms, environmental protection, and infrastructure are already paving the way for greater stability and growth.
With renewed focus on strengthening governance and reinforcing democratic institutions, the region has the potential to overcome current hurdles and unlock its vast economic potential. Though issues such as unemployment and external debt persist, the progress made in key areas signals a hopeful future where sustained efforts can lead to more equitable and widespread prosperity for all.
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