Members of the Public Education Union (SEC), marched Tuesday under the slogan “Yes to democracy, no to dictatorship,” protesting the administration of President Rodrigo Chaves-Robles and accusing it of undermining the country’s public sector.

Union leaders said the Chaves administration has failed to strengthen public education in key areas, including improving education quality, guaranteeing that 8% of the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP) is allocated to education, and increasing salaries and pensions for educators.

The Public Sector Agricultural Union (SITRAP) also joined the demonstration, citing unfair competition with imported products that has caused millions of dollars in losses for local farmers. The group also criticized the government’s monetary policies, saying they have had a negative impact on the agricultural economy.

Organizers said thousands of protesters marched for about 3 miles through downtown San José, from Central Park to the Presidential House in the Zapote District.

  

Traffic police urged drivers to avoid crossing through the city during the march and were stationed along the route to redirect traffic.


Additional officers were deployed around the Presidential House as a precaution to prevent disturbances and ensure the safety of government employees. Authorities said the security presence followed standard procedures for demonstrations near government buildings.


Police reported that the protest remained peaceful, with only one arrest made, a man who allegedly attempted to attack an officer.


Costa Rica enacted Law No. 21.049 in 2020, known as the Law to Provide Legal Security on Strikes and Their Procedures. The legislation restricts strikes by public employees and prohibits walkouts in sectors deemed vital public services. These include occupations that affect essential government functions.


Under the law, the public education sector is considered one of those essential areas. The legislation requires that enough staff remain on duty to keep schools, high schools and universities operating during a strike. It also limits strikes by public employees to 10 days and bans marches in public spaces. After that period, workers must return to their jobs.


The Ministry of Public Education (MEP) is the government agency in charge of overseeing the public education system, implementing plans, programs, and other actions to provide basic, public, and free general education.


------------------
What steps should the government take to reach an agreement with the public education unions? We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com