Costa Rica operates under a presidential democratic republic political structure. The country is a republic, where the President of Costa Rica serves as both the head of state and the head of government. The President is elected by popular vote for a four-year term and can serve non-consecutive terms. The President holds significant executive powers and is responsible for leading the government, implementing policies, and representing Costa Rica domestically and internationally.

The legislative branch in Costa Rica is a unicameral legislature known as the Legislative Assembly. It consists of members who are elected through a proportional representation system. The Legislative Assembly is responsible for making laws, approving the national budget, and exercising legislative oversight over the executive branch. Costa Rica also has an independent judiciary that operates separately from the legislative and executive branches. The judiciary ensures the interpretation and application of the law, upholds justice, and protects the rights of individuals. The Supreme Court of Justice is the highest court in Costa Rica and serves as the final appellate instance.

Costa Rica’s political structure upholds democratic principles, including the separation of powers, regular elections, and protection of individual rights and freedoms. The country is known for its commitment to democracy, environmental conservation, and human rights. Costa Rica abolished its military in 1948 and has since focused on social development, education, and environmental sustainability. The political system in Costa Rica provides a framework for democratic governance, checks and balances, and respect for human rights.