Laura Fernandez officially takes office as the new president of Costa Rica.

Laura Fernandez has been inaugurated as Costa Rica’s new president amid a climate of rising crime and a pressing need for judicial reform. As the first leader from the right-leaning Sovereign People’s Party to hold an absolute majority in the National Assembly, her administration is positioned to implement significant changes that may reshape the country’s approach to security and governance, while also fostering stronger ties with international partners, particularly the United States.

Laura Fernandez was sworn in as the President of Costa Rica, pledging to combat the escalating crime rates that have recently plagued the nation. Garnering a decisive victory in the February 1 elections, Fernandez succeeded outgoing president Rodrigo Chaves, who has maintained alignment with US President Donald Trump.

In a move highlighting continuity in governance, Chaves is set to retain his influence within the administration as the dual minister of the presidency and finance. This arrangement ensures that he will play a significant advisory role as Fernandez implements her agenda.

To further strengthen relations with the United States, Fernandez has appointed Douglas Soto, her second vice president, to serve as ambassador in Washington. Notably present at her inauguration was Kristi Noem, the US special envoy leading the Trump administration’s militarized strategy in Latin America, known as “Shield of the Americas.” Additionally, Israeli President Isaac Herzog attended, signaling a commitment to fostering diplomatic ties amidst ongoing complexities in the region.

At just 39 years old, Fernandez has expressed intentions to undertake extensive reforms targeting Costa Rica’s judiciary and security laws while waging a “war without quarter” against organized crime, emphasizing the need for decisive action. As the country transitions to this new era, the introduction of new security minister Gerald Campos marks a pivotal point in her strategic approach to addressing crime—a phenomenon that has surged as Costa Rica has become a key transit route for drug smuggling to the United States.

While Costa Rica has historically been viewed as one of Central America’s most stable nations, the recent uptick in crime has prompted government action, including the construction of a maximum-security prison modeled after El Salvador’s controversial anti-terrorism facility. Further complicating the landscape, Costa Rica has agreed to accept non-citizens deported from the US, an arrangement that has faced criticism from rights groups due to concerns over the treatment of deportees in such third-party nations.

With a significant majority in the legislature—31 out of 57 seats—Fernandez’s right-wing Sovereign People’s Party (PPSO) is poised for legislative expedience as her administration seeks to navigate the challenges ahead, delivering on campaign promises amid both national and international scrutiny.

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