Taught In English

There is no language prerequisite for courses at this language level.

Objectives:
The general objective of this course is to discuss, with students, the social, economic
and political issues of the process of construction of peace and democracy in Costa Rica
and Central America (1948-2005).
Method:
Social, economic and political issues will be addressed. Students are expected to read
and research on the tradition of peace and democracy in Costa Rica, in the context of
the Central American region, current tendencies and future perspectives. Written
material on each topic will be provided to the students, who have to prepare for class
discussions. Individual or group study and research are recommended.
A formal essay (Introduction, Development of Topic, Conclusions, References; not less
than 5 and no more than 15 pages) and an oral presentation (with audiovisual aids) are
expected from each student or group of students, on one of the topics addressed during
the course.
Two visits will be planned to University for Peace (Ciudad Colón) and Arias
Foundation for Peace (San José)
Topics:
1. Political bases of Costa Rican tradition of peace and democracy.
2. Social forces and movements participating in the construction of democracy and
peace in Costa Rica.
3. Global economic context and internal issues related to economic development until
1980.
4. Economic and Administrative measures taken by the presidential administration of
Carazo-Odio (1978-1982).
5. The economic crisis since 1980 and Structural Adjustment Programs.
6. The presidential administration of Monge-Alvarez (1982-1986) and the “Presidential
Proclamation of Perpetual, Active and Non-armed Neutrality”.
7. Major problems related to mass movements of people in Central America.
8. The presidential administration of Arias-Sánchez (1986-1990) and the Central
American process of peace and democracy.
9. Cooperation for democracy and development in Central America: A challenge for U.
S. policy makers in the 1990’s.
9. After the War: Reconstruction and next steps in Central America.
10. Gender, Peace and Democracy in Central America; the role of women,
consequences and challenges.
11. Costa Rica and the Free Trade Agreement US-CA.
12. Future perspectives for Costa Rican and Central American peace and democracy.
Evaluation:
Participation in class and visits 30%
Written Essay 40%
Oral Presentation 30%