A SLICE of Iowa misplaced on the Central American isthmus”,is how an American political scientist once characterised Costa Rica. He meant it as a compliment. Costa Rica is orderly, relatively rich, and has been a democracy since 1949. But ticos,as Costa Ricans call themselves, are feeling disgruntled. Their sour mood is shaping elections to be held on February 4th. None of the five main presidential candidates has the support of more than 20% of the electorate, and according to the (unreliable) polls. Two are anti-establishment. For the first time in Costa Rica’s democratic history,such flame-throwers could win.
A ruling on January 9th by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights seems to oblige Costa Rica to let same-sex couples marry. That angered its conservative electorate (see article). But it is not the only cause of discontent. The unemployment...
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Source: economist.com