Social Issues: Improving the Lives of Talamancans

Since officially becoming a democracy and ratifying its constitution in 1948, Costa Rica has made great economic and social strides. It has become a leader in development among Central American countries as a result of its stable political environment, expanding economy, and aggressive environmental policies. In addition, because of its peaceful culture and its decision to dissolve the army in the late 1940s, some refer to Costa Rica as the 'Switzerland of the south.'

Nonetheless, Costa Rica is still in development and not without obstacles to overcome. As with every country, pockets of extreme poverty exist and are often times overlooked. In Costa Rica, one such pocket is the Talamanca region, which comprises 3,000 square miles (4,828 km2) in the southeastern section of the country bordering Panama. Although the region is ‘rich’ with 2% of the Earth’s biodiversity, Talamanca is the poorest region of the country. It is here that the majority of the country’s indigenous population, including the BriBri and Cabécar tribes, as well as many Afro-Caribbeans, mestizos, and Europeans reside—creating a unique assortment of cultures.

Because of the limited economic opportunities in Talamanca, many people have been forced to leave the area or to seek less than ideal employment in places such as conventional banana plantations. Others have chosen to clear or to sell their lands for lucrative purposes, leading to further environmental degradation.

However, with the rise of organic farmers’ associations, like ACAPRO, farmers are able to remove themselves from the endless cycle of problems plaguing the conventional plantations in Latin America—including exposure to pesticides, long hours, low wages, child labor, discrimination, sexual harassment, opposition to workers’ unions, and the abuse of health and safety regulations.

They also place themselves on the road to achieving sustainable development. They are simultaneously creating jobs, generating and increasing the incomes of their members, supporting the local community, and preserving the vast biodiversity around them through their practices.

Moreover, for many of these Talamancans, the numerous gains obtained from ACAPRO’s work extend much farther. Rather than leaving the region in search of work, individuals may remain with their families, aiding in the preservation of each of their distinct cultures. The economic gains also open innumerable doors, lending in particular to making improvements in healthcare and education. The overall improvement in the quality of life of many individuals in the region as a result of ACAPRO’s current and future efforts will essentially lead to the empowerment of Talamancans to take an active interest and role in their own development.