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Costa Rica Inaugurates New President Amid Political Continuity
Laura Fernández Delgado was inaugurated as Costa Rica's 50th president on May 8, 2026, after winning a landslide election in February. Her newly formed party secured a legislative majority, the first such combined win since 1990. The new government plans to continue policies from the prior administration with a focus on addressing crime.
May 8, 2:22 PM·2m read1 source
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Costa Rica inaugurated its 50th president on May 8, 2026, at a time of unusual political continuity for the country. Laura Fernández Delgado won the presidency in a landslide election in February. Her newly formed party gained a simple majority in Congress, the first time since 1990 that one party has held both the presidency and a legislative majority.
The incoming government has signaled a continuation of the prior administration's approach. Fernández campaigned on policy continuity and a tougher stance on crime, including plans to complete a maximum-security prison within the first year. Twenty-two officials from the outgoing government will continue in the new administration, some in different positions.
The former president will serve in two cabinet roles in the new government: minister of the presidency and minister of finance. One cabinet change involves the shift of the former minister of foreign trade to minister of foreign affairs. Officials indicated that Costa Rica's external agenda will focus more on security, trade, investment and strategic alignment.
The country has long been noted in the region for its democratic tradition, absence of a standing army and strong institutions. It maintains a dynamic tourism sector and an advanced medical-device industry that support its economy. These characteristics are now facing pressures from insecurity, organized crime, migration and public dissatisfaction with institutional responses.
The security situation worsened in recent years, with 2023, 2024 and 2025 recorded as the most violent years. Roughly 70 percent of homicides have been linked to drug trafficking and organized crime. Insecurity ranked as the top concern for voters in the election.
