Refugees and Human Rights in Costa Rica: The Mariel Cubans

Abstract

Historically, Costa Rican refugee policies have reflected a broad human rights perspective consistent with international principles. However, the reception and subsequent treatment of Mariel Cubans took place in an increasingly negative context, namely a substantial increase in the number of Salvadorans and Nicaraguans requiring assistance. As a result, the skills, educational levels and occupational experiences of the Mariel Cubans were not considered assets for Costa Rican development. Costa Rica, the host society for hundreds of Mariel Cubans, raised obstacles to the effective utilization of those assets. These obstacles raise questions about aspects of Costa Rica's longstanding commitment to human rights.