Óscar Arias Sánchez is, without a doubt, one of the most emblematic figures in Costa Rica’s political history. His name is synonymous with the struggle for peace, progress, and democracy in Central America. Throughout his career, Arias has been a visionary leader both in his country and on the international stage, standing out for his ability to mediate in conflicts and promote peace agreements.
As president of Costa Rica during two terms, one in the 1980s and another in the 2000s, his legacy is marked by his tireless efforts to bring stability and well-being to the region, despite complex political and social challenges. In 1987, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his work in pacifying Central America, specifically through the Esquipulas II Accords, a milestone that marked a turning point in conflict resolution processes on the continent.
This article seeks to delve into the life, work, and legacy of Óscar Arias, analyzing his impact on Costa Rica’s political history and his influence on the international stage.
Early Years and Academic Formation
Óscar Arias Sánchez was born on September 13, 1940, in the city of Heredia, Costa Rica. Coming from a middle-class family, his education was always shaped by a commitment to knowledge and the development of Costa Rican society. From a young age, he showed a deep interest in politics and the social sciences, which led him to study Law and Economics at the University of Costa Rica. During these formative years, Arias developed a vision of the importance of social justice and equity—principles that would later be reflected in his public life.
After completing his studies in Costa Rica, Arias furthered his education abroad, earning a doctorate in Political Science from the University of Essex in England. His international experience allowed him to immerse himself in the study of global politics and international relations, which in turn enriched his perspective on the challenges faced by Central America in terms of governance, democracy, and peace. During his time in Europe, he was inspired by the political and social movements of the era, solidifying his ideology in defense of human rights and the peaceful resolution of conflicts.
His solid academic background and passion for politics prepared him to play a decisive role in Costa Rican politics, where he would later become one of the most influential leaders in the country’s modern history.
Rise to Politics
Óscar Arias began his political career at a crucial time for Costa Rica, a country that was in the midst of a complex socio-economic and political context. Throughout his academic training and early years of work, Arias developed a sharp awareness of the country’s needs and a determination to improve the living conditions of Costa Ricans. His entry into politics was not immediate, but in the 1970s he joined the National Liberation Party (PLN), which was founded by José Figueres Ferrer, one of the main architects of modern Costa Rican democracy.
In 1972, Arias began to take on important roles within the country’s political structure, and in 1974, he was appointed Minister of National Planning and Economic Policy during the government of Daniel Oduber. This position was key to understanding the dynamics of the Costa Rican economy and implementing measures to promote the country’s development. During his time as minister, he focused on modernizing the state apparatus and seeking solutions to face the economic crisis of the time. His ability to manage resources and make strategic decisions earned him recognition within the PLN and among various political sectors in the country.
However, it was in 1986 that Arias reached the height of his political prominence, being elected president of Costa Rica in a surprising electoral victory. In his campaign, he stood out for his message of political renewal, proposing measures to address both Costa Rica’s internal problems and the challenges of the Central American region. His election marked the beginning of a period of transformation for both his party and the nation.
During his first term, Arias distinguished himself not only for his internal reforms but also for his bold stance on the international stage. His government coincided with a period of intense armed conflicts in Central America, which led Arias to become directly involved in the efforts for peace in the region. His previous experience as a minister and his academic training put him in an ideal position to become a key mediator in peace processes, which ultimately led him to receive one of the highest international recognitions: the Nobel Peace Prize in 1987.
The Arias Peace Plan
Óscar Arias’s greatest legacy on the international level is, without a doubt, his crucial role in resolving the armed conflicts that plagued Central America during the 1980s. The region experienced a series of civil wars involving countries such as Nicaragua, El Salvador, and Guatemala, with Costa Rica being one of the few relatively stable nations in the midst of the storm. In this context, Arias, aware of the urgent need to achieve peace, presented what would become known as the Arias Peace Plan or the Esquipulas II Accords, a set of initiatives aimed at ending violence in neighboring countries through the strengthening of democracy, the protection of human rights, and political reform.
In 1986, under Arias’s presidency, Costa Rica hosted the presidents of the Central American countries for a series of negotiations in the city of Esquipulas, Guatemala. These talks culminated in a historic agreement that allowed the countries involved to implement a series of measures aimed at ending the civil wars. The Arias Peace Plan was a model of diplomacy and international commitment, based on mutual respect and the will to resolve conflicts peacefully.
The impact of the Esquipulas II Accords was immediate and far-reaching. The governments of Nicaragua, El Salvador, and Guatemala, after several failed attempts to achieve peace, finally signed a binding agreement that established a ceasefire, the disarmament of armed groups, and the creation of a democratic process in each country. The Nobel Peace Prize that Arias received in 1987 was recognition of his tireless work to achieve lasting peace in a region devastated by conflict. This award solidified his status as a global leader in the promotion of peace and diplomacy.
The accords were not only important for the countries directly involved but also became a model for other regions in the world facing similar conflicts. Arias, as the main driver of this process, succeeded in linking his name to the idea of peace as a path to progress and regional development.
First Presidential Term (1986–1990)
Óscar Arias’s first term as president of Costa Rica, which lasted from 1986 to 1990, was marked by a series of political, social, and economic reforms that changed the direction of the country during a time of great transformation. Upon assuming the presidency in a turbulent international context due to the Central American civil wars, Arias committed himself to consolidating democracy and internal stability in Costa Rica, while maintaining an active foreign policy focused on regional peace.
One of the first challenges he faced was the Costa Rican economy, which had experienced significant instability in the years prior to his presidency. Arias implemented a series of fiscal and economic development reforms to reduce foreign debt, improve the tax system, and promote sustained economic growth. During his term, policies aimed at trade liberalization were implemented, allowing Costa Rica to enter international agreements such as the Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA).
Domestically, Arias also sought a balance between economic development and social protection, promoting welfare policies that benefited the most vulnerable sectors. His government promoted a series of programs in health, education, and housing that, although not without criticism, represented significant advances in improving the quality of life for Costa Ricans.
One of the most notable achievements of his administration was the reform of Costa Rica’s political system, strengthening the country’s democratic institutions. Under his leadership, the process of state modernization was consolidated, and Costa Rica took important steps toward diversifying its economy, which allowed the country to become a model in Latin America in terms of political stability and economic growth.
However, Arias’s term was also criticized by some sectors, who argued that his economic policies had not been sufficient to resolve issues of poverty and inequality. Despite the criticism, Arias’s first term was established as a period of major reforms and progress for Costa Rica, placing the country in a position of leadership within the Central American region.
Throughout his presidency, Arias showed himself to be a man committed not only to his country but also to the well-being of Central America and the world, always carrying the banner of peace and democracy. This first term laid the groundwork for his return to the presidency in 2006, when Costa Rica would face new internal and external challenges.
International Career and Role as Mediator
The impact of Óscar Arias transcended the borders of Costa Rica and Central America, making him an influential figure on the global stage. Throughout his life, Arias was actively engaged in international diplomacy and human rights, establishing close relationships with international organizations such as the United Nations and the Organization of American States (OAS). His role as a mediator in various political and social conflicts positioned him as a reference point in the peaceful resolution of disputes.
One of the most significant moments of his international career was his leadership in the peace process in Central America, which earned him global recognition, including the Nobel Peace Prize. However, his involvement in diplomacy did not end there. Arias intervened in various conflicts in Latin America and around the world, advocating for the resolution of disputes through dialogue and negotiation. His stance was always to avoid violence and seek peaceful solutions—a principle that kept him active in numerous international forums, promoting peace, social justice, and respect for human rights.
In addition to his work in conflict mediation, Arias stood out for his defense of democracy and his strong opposition to authoritarian policies. In the 1990s, he participated in the promotion of democratic initiatives in countries emerging from dictatorships or armed conflicts, such as El Salvador, Guatemala, and Nicaragua. During this period, he also advocated for disarmament and the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons, becoming a defender of world peace in a complex global context.
In the economic sphere, Arias was a strong believer in free trade and regional integration, supporting initiatives that allowed Latin American countries to strengthen their economic and political ties. He was a promoter of the Free Trade Agreement between Central America, the United States, and other nations, and participated in the creation of various regional alliances that helped boost the Costa Rican and Latin American economies.
Over the years, the figure of Óscar Arias remained relevant, not only for his efforts in diplomacy and international politics but also for his tireless work in promoting peace, human rights, and sustainable development in the most needy countries. His ability to mediate in complex situations and his integrity as a leader made him a respected and admired figure by many, turning him into a global reference in the fight for peace.
Second Presidential Term (2006–2010)
After nearly 20 years, Óscar Arias returned to the presidency of Costa Rica in 2006, in a very different context from his first term. During his return, Costa Rica faced new economic, social, and political challenges, and Arias was tasked with maintaining the stability achieved during his first term while addressing the country’s contemporary problems.
One of the main priorities of his second term was economic reform. In a globalized world, Costa Rica needed to adapt to new economic demands, and Arias pushed for an economic modernization program that included the signing of free trade agreements, particularly with the United States, through the Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA). This treaty was approved during his term and had significant implications for the country, opening new markets for Costa Rican exports, especially in the agricultural and technology sectors. However, the treaty also generated controversy and protests, especially among those who believed that economic liberalization could jeopardize national sovereignty and increase social inequality.
Arias also worked to consolidate a more sustainable Costa Rica. During his second term, he promoted policies that encouraged the use of renewable energy and environmental protection. Costa Rica became a global reference in sustainability, and Arias’s administration continued policies that promoted ecotourism, the use of geothermal energy, and the protection of its vast natural resources. However, some sectors criticized that the benefits of these policies were not equitably distributed among all Costa Ricans, and that social inequality remained a major issue.
Regarding domestic politics, Arias’s government faced tensions within his own party, the National Liberation Party (PLN), and had to deal with a more polarized political landscape. Social reforms, such as the creation of health and education programs, were under constant scrutiny, with some sectors demanding more resources and better public services. Arias also faced growing opposition to his privatization policies, which were seen by many as a threat to Costa Rica’s welfare state.
Despite the challenges, Arias’s second term was seen as a period of consolidation and modernization for Costa Rica. Although criticism of his economic and social policies persisted, his international leadership remained a strong point, and his figure continued to symbolize peace and stability for the region.
At the end of his term in 2010, Arias left a mixed legacy: on one hand, his contributions to peace and sustainability are widely recognized, but his domestic management also left lessons about the limits of economic and social policies in a globalized and changing context. Nevertheless, his influence endures as a reference point in Costa Rican politics and international diplomacy.
Controversies and Criticism
Although Óscar Arias is widely recognized for his diplomatic work and for being one of the architects of peace in Central America, his figure has also been the subject of controversy and criticism, both nationally and internationally. Throughout his political career, Arias faced various challenges and opposing opinions that placed him in an uncomfortable position before sectors that did not share his approach on several key issues.
One of the main criticisms he received was related to the economic policies implemented during his terms. In his second presidential period, for example, his promotion of the Free Trade Agreement between the United States, Central America, and the Dominican Republic (CAFTA) generated strong debate in the country. While some saw this agreement as an opportunity to open markets and strengthen the Costa Rican economy, others believed that free trade policies favored large corporations and neglected the most vulnerable sectors of the population. The protests against CAFTA were a manifestation of the internal tensions experienced during his government.
Domestically, he was also questioned for his approach toward privatizations and reforms in the public sector. Although his policies aimed to modernize the Costa Rican economy, some sectors of society—especially unions and labor rights advocates—criticized the privatization of state-owned companies and the reform of public services, arguing that these measures endangered the welfare state and increased social inequality. This perception generated strong opposition, which affected his image among a significant portion of the population.
In addition, his political stance on international issues was not free from controversy. In the later years of his career, Arias became an outspoken critic of the policies of certain governments, including that of the United States under President Donald Trump. In 2025, the news that the U.S. government revoked his visa without providing an explanation caused a stir and was seen by some as a retaliatory act following his public criticism of the American president. This episode sparked debate about the freedom of expression of international leaders and the role diplomatic relations play in global politics.
One of the most controversial episodes of his second term was the decision to break diplomatic ties with Taiwan and establish formal relations with the People’s Republic of China in 2007. This shift in Costa Rica’s foreign policy was a decisive move that generated intense debate both within the country and internationally. The break with Taiwan, with whom Costa Rica had maintained a close relationship since 1949, was seen as a betrayal by many sectors that defended the alliance with the island. Arias justified this decision as an act of “elemental realism,” pointing out that China represented a crucial economic opportunity for Costa Rica, given its growth and geopolitical weight at the time. However, the negotiations for this agreement were kept secret, which led to speculation about the motives behind this foreign policy move. In a significant turn, China acquired $300 million in Costa Rican debt bonds, which added complexity to the interpretation of this change in direction. The decision was seen by some as a pragmatic approach to ensure the country’s economic development, while others believed it represented a risk to Costa Rican sovereignty and the abandonment of a historic ally.
Despite these criticisms, it is important to recognize that on many occasions, Arias remained firm in his convictions, prioritizing his ideals of peace and justice—even at the cost of generating divisions. His legacy, although not free of controversy, remains a fundamental part of Costa Rica’s political and diplomatic history.
Recognition and Legacy
Óscar Arias has left an indelible mark on the history of Costa Rica and the Central American region. His work as a leader and mediator in the Central American peace process remains his greatest legacy, and his efforts for democratic stability and respect for human rights have established him as a global reference in diplomacy.
His most notable contribution was the signing of the Esquipulas II Accords in 1987, which put an end to several armed conflicts that plagued Central America. This achievement earned him the highest international recognition: the Nobel Peace Prize. Over the years, he has continued to be a defender of peace, promoting disarmament, the peaceful resolution of conflicts, and human rights, both in the region and in international forums. This stance has made him a respected leader worldwide, especially during times when conflicts and social crises have affected various nations.
His figure has also become a symbol of Costa Rica’s modernization and stability. During his first presidential term, he implemented reforms that enabled the country to achieve relative economic and political stability in a time of significant internal and external tensions. In his second term, although his economic policies were questioned, his ability to consolidate the country as a reference in sustainability and renewable energy has earned him a prominent place in recent history.
In addition to his Nobel Peace Prize, Arias has received a series of international awards and distinctions that recognize his tireless work for peace and democracy. Among them are honors from the Organization of American States (OAS) and various universities and international organizations that have acknowledged his contributions to diplomacy and sustainable development.
Although his figure remains controversial for some, his legacy is undeniable. Óscar Arias has demonstrated that politics can be a powerful tool for the transformation of societies and for building a future of peace and prosperity. Despite criticism and challenges, his impact on Costa Rica and the world will endure, and his name will continue to be associated with the pursuit of a more just and peaceful world.
Óscar Arias Sánchez is a complex figure who has left an enduring mark on the history of Costa Rica and international politics. His legacy is defined by his tireless struggle for peace, democracy, and social justice. His ability to negotiate in times of war—promoting peace agreements that ended decades of conflict in Central America—has ensured him a prominent place in contemporary history.
The Nobel Peace Prize he received in 1987 is only one of the many recognitions of his work as a mediator and peace advocate. However, beyond his international achievements, his impact on Costa Rica’s internal politics is also significant. During his first presidential term, Arias implemented reforms that modernized the Costa Rican economy, though they also drew criticism for the inequality and lack of tangible benefits for all sectors of the population.
His second term, on the other hand, was marked by controversial decisions, such as the rupture with Taiwan and the establishment of diplomatic relations with China, as well as the promotion of the Free Trade Agreement with the United States. These decisions, while seen as strategic by some, also generated divisions and internal tensions.
Nonetheless, the figure of Óscar Arias transcends criticism. His legacy is a testament to his commitment to the well-being of his country and to regional stability. Through his efforts to achieve peace in Central America, he has demonstrated that politics, when exercised with integrity and vision, can be a transformative force. Despite the controversies and challenges he faced, his name remains synonymous with a form of leadership that, although controversial in some aspects, was always guided by a deep desire to improve people’s lives and promote peace in the world.
Ultimately, the legacy of Óscar Arias is not measured solely by his political achievements and decisions, but also by his influence on generations of leaders and citizens who continue to seek a path toward a more just and peaceful future.