Forbidden Access 

I decided to research Costa Rica. A country that is known for its exotic nature, beaches, waterfalls, rainfalls, cloud forests, and animals of the country located in Central America. Costa Ricans are welcoming with their warm hospitality and rich culture. In addition to the beauty and biodiversity of the country, technology is evolving when it comes to education, internet connectivity, and government initiatives.  

Region  

Capital: San José 

Area: The 124th largest country in the world 

Population: 5.15 million to 5.28 million (2025) 

Languages: Spanish 

Life Expectancy: 83-84 years (female), 78-79 (male) 

Environment 

Costa Rica is known for its coastal warm, humid climate for different regions across the country. The central highlands have a cooler temperature atmosphere.  The tropical climate has two seasons; dryness from December to April and mostly rain from May to November. The rainy periods keep the rainfall afloat in the coastal and mountain areas. Climates play a crucial role in the replenishment of water and the health of ecosystems. Rain promotes the growth of plant species, animal life, and supports endangered species. In 2023, the term pura vida entered the dictionary of the Real Academia Española. This translation means “pure life or simple life”.(Phelan, 2025) 

Population Changes 

Pertaining to “Costa Rica: Society & Culture” the population birth rate has declined. The decline comes from modern contraception's, family planning, and an aging population. It has been estimated that 75% of women are using the advantage of the modern ways that contraception is being used. Life expectancy has risen and fewer children are born. Culturally, family is essential and Costa Ricans. Economics impacts have affected parenting practices; which means children are expected to work generally after completion of higher education vs. poor families to rely on children to contribute to the household from younger ages.  

 Cultural Communities  

When it comes to diversity in Costa Rica, much of the population is mestizo (mixed indigenous and European descent). The largest group is White/Mestizo, that is approximately 85%. The Afro-Costa Rican communities such as Caribbeans, are 1%-7%, and the Indigenous make 2.4% of the population. Yet, the indigenous groups remain distinctly with their own cultural values. (OECD, 2025) 

Economy View 

The economy for Costa Rica has shown a great strength in growth since the Covid pandemic. It comes as high value manufacturing and with increasing exports and decline in unemployment. As the country's finances recover, there is still a need to reduce public debt. Collecting tax revenues will help persist in long term stability. Women in the workforce is still at its lowest. Improvement in policies is needed such as early childhood education and job opportunities. However, Costs Rica is being proactive against climate change. Renewing energy and boosting open trade with enhanced infrastructure is leading to a healthier economic future. (OECD, 2025) 

Technology and the Gap in Digital Access 

-Merging the divide in the digital aspect is prioritized. Only 60% of rural zones have high-speed internet. It is warned by experts that without training creators that rolled out technologies like AI and 5G could impair inequalities.  

-In 2024 Costa Rica launched a National Artificial Intelligence Strategy. Costa Rica became the first Central American country to have an extensive AI policy that highlights principles, education, digital infrastructure, and proper access.  

-Funding is still a challenge along with economics with the county having a small GDP. Balancing investments with technologies and other needs such as healthcare and ecotourism. Requirements are to have a strong collaboration with the government and private sectors.  

-Costa Rica is ensuring that ethical standards, transparency, and human rights with digital transformation. 5G’s energy may test its green efforts.  

-In 2024 an agreement was reached with the United States to expedite 5G technology. With this agreement, the future of 6G will open and ensure secure networks, cybersecurity, and public- private partnerships that will align with Costa Rica’s tech characteristics.  

Currently, the government of Costa Rica is making strides building relationships with international organizations to make sure internet expansions have 5G networks. Especially the disadvantaged communities. Community programs and education together will bring people from all backgrounds collectively to access new technologies. (TimesTico ,2025) 

Digital Inclusion 

Costa Rica is addressing digital discrepancies by joining multiple countries and organizations via BELLA II Alliance. This partnership will build the country's digital infrastructure, making reliable internet and digital resources to reach the public. Especially rural and marginalized groups. The initiative is to focus on providing cost efficient broadband, improving digital skills, promoting innovation, enabling all Costa Rican’s to be connected to modern society. Creating such opportunities will aid in closing the digital divide and paving for more economic growth, and educational opportunities. (Jenny Flores, 2025)