Costa Rica's long-standing image as a paragon of democracy in Latin America is facing scrutiny following the recent presidential election of Laura Fernández. For the first time since 1948, there are doubts about the strength of Costa Rica's democratic institutions. While Fernández's election victory is not disputed, her proposals to reform the constitution — particularly concerning consecutive presidential terms — suggest a willingness to adopt measures that challenge the core principles of Costa Rica’s governance, which were strategically designed to prevent the concentration of power.

One major concern is Fernández's suggestion to amend the constitution, which currently prohibits consecutive presidential terms. This is alarming in a nation where democracy has been carefully nurtured to protect against authoritarianism. Critics argue that such reforms could undermine the democratic culture, institutional strength, and electoral integrity that Costa Rica has historically protected. Adopting policies reminiscent of Nayib Bukele's controversial governance in El Salvador raises further alarms amid rising violence across Latin America.

If these suggested reforms are enacted, they could transform Costa Rica's political landscape, leading to a potential erosion of democratic norms that have been in place for decades. The implications may extend beyond the nation, reflecting a wider trend in the region where countries grapple with the balance between security and civil liberties. The upcoming months will be critical in determining whether Costa Rica will hold true to its democratic principles or shift towards a more authoritarian model, potentially impacting its role as a leader in Central American democracy.