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Life Onboard |
LAST UPDATE
July 12, 2005
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| August 22, 2003 |
Threats to an Army Free Costa Rica – Francisco Cordero |
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| Francisco Cordero and the "Threats to an Army Free Costa Rica" |
Costa Rica's unique existence as an army free country is under threat. Francisco Cordero, an adviser to the Parliamentary Liberation Party, spoke to Peace Boat on the increased pressure from the US for his country to be militarised.
Since 1948, there has been no army in Costa Rica. The majority of the population have no experience of war, and "there is no respect for military tradition," says Francisco. Fifty-five years of peace show that it is possible to have a better society and "leave behind our warrior heritage." In western civilisation, the war hero is a symbol of respect. Francisco asks if the example of Costa Rica can be transferred to the rest of the world, or if the army is set to return to this country of peace.
Though Costa Rica officially declared its neutrality in 1983, Francisco argues that by allowing the US Navy to operate from the base in Golfito against Columbian guerrillas, it cannot truly claim to be impartial. US dollars have poured into developing the port, and Francisco is suspicious of the extra funding for improvements, speculating as to what long term plans the US has for Golfito. |
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| "Costa Rica must say no to re-militarisation" |
The promise of US funding has also led to the proposal of an International Law Enforcement Academy to be controlled by the FBI. Many organisations are against the project that would train people such as judges and police officers in the style of the US Intel system.
Along with these explicit examples of US interest in militarising Costa Rica, government officials and the growing number of private security companies have also received financial support from "covert operations by the US that will take us back in history."
Despite the challenges the Peace Constitution of Costa Rica faces, Francisco is optimistic. The government decision about the academy is still in balance, and Francisco and others are working hard to sway the undecided senators to maintain their country's integrity as a model of peaceful society. "Costa Rica must say no to remilitarisation." |
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