Costa Rican journalist Elías Alvarado, a correspondent for Teletica in the United States, addressed concerns among Costa Ricans living in the U.S. who plan to vote on February 1. Many members of the Costa Rican immigrant community have expressed worry about participating in elections while immigration enforcement actions by ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) are ongoing.
In response to these concerns, Alvarado contacted the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship for clarification. He shared their response through a video on his Instagram account: “We understand and are aware of the concerns of our compatriots in the United States regarding the risks they face, especially those who are in an irregular migration situation in that country,” according to information provided by Alvarado.
The ministry also clarified that voting centers abroad benefit from immunities and protections as established by the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic and Consular Relations. Alvarado stated, “Inside, electoral activity can take place safely and without external interruptions in the 42 countries where voting abroad is conducted.”
Alvarado emphasized that this message aims to reassure Costa Ricans planning to vote outside their home country. He said, “Know that inside the polling stations you can be calm and will be able to exercise your right to vote peacefully and with much peace.”
