Summary

The present report of the Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of slavery, including its causes and consequences, Tomoya Obokata, is submitted pursuant to Human Rights Council resolution 51/15.

The Special Rapporteur visited Costa Rica from 16 to 25 November 2022. Following an analysis of the normative framework and the existing institutional architecture to combat contemporary forms of slavery, the Special Rapporteur examines the labour conditions in various sectors of the economy, including agriculture and the tourism industry. The Special Rapporteur did not find systematic or widespread instances of contemporary forms of slavery in the country, and he acknowledges the progress achieved, for example in preventing and addressing child labour. At the same time, the Special Rapporteur highlights persisting shortcomings in ending contemporary forms of slavery in Costa Rica, and concludes with recommendations to assist the Government and other stakeholders in addressing the remaining challenges.