Summary

The Independent Expert on human rights and international solidarity, Obiora Chinedu Okafor, visited Costa Rica from 21 February to 2 March 2022, pursuant to his mandate contained in Human Rights Council resolution 44/11. The main purpose of the visit was to learn and understand how the country incorporates human rights in its international solidarity strategy and action and to collect good practices in this regard, and to identify any areas for improvement. The Independent Expert also sought to understand how solidarity was applied within the country, particularly in the context of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic and the economic downturn that followed, and with regard to migration and refugee issues.

In his visit report, he focuses on: (a) the applicable constitutional and human rights framework; (b) the presence of the United Nations and regional organizations in Costa Rica; (c) international cooperation and development assistance as forms of good practice in international solidarity; and (d) challenges and areas of concern revealed during the visit. He draws conclusions and makes specific recommendations to the Government, international organizations present in the country and civil society organizations.